Blessed Be a Catholic Friday

Once upon a time, abstaining from meat on Fridays was considered an obligation among Catholics. The law, if you will. And with very good reason.

First you need to realize that the very first Christians were Jews. Peter, well versed in Jewish Law, was appointed the head of the newly established Church by Christ Himself. The idea of certain foods being forbidden was not new. Fasting was not new. The early Christians understood these to be acts of discipline. Catholics consider every Friday to be a mini Good Friday. On Good Friday we both abstain and fast. On all Fridays, as a part of discipline and in recognition of Christ’s suffering, the luxury of eating meat was given up. Today the majority of parishes outside the United States still adhere to the Canon Law of abstinence. No Meat on Fridays is growing in popularity within the United States. I for one am glad to see this. Growing up, to forego meat on Fridays made me feel a part of something much larger than myself. Catholics were united in our penance and sacrifice. In 1966, the US Bishops, facing a loss of parishioners who were “crossing over to the dark side” and joining their Protestant neighbors at Friday night barbecues were allowed to modify the law. Sacrifice and penance is still a requirement, but each Catholic could decide for themselves what that sacrifice would be. Perhaps no coffee on Fridays. Perhaps donate to a charity every Friday. Pray an extra Rosary. Something, anything. Unfortunately, over time the idea of abstinence beyond the Fridays of Lent was forgotten. I think that’s why people are returning to the ways of old – because it gives us a sense of belonging, a shared experience of faith and devotion and a connection to something far greater than ourselves. Besides, there are so many delicious alternatives to burgers on a Friday night, it hardly seems a sacrifice at all. While the act of abstaining on Fridays might seem superficial or silly, over time it does strengthen your faith and conviction through discipline. And your spiritual life is greatly enriched for it.

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Ginger Ale Fish and Shrimp Fry
1-1/2 cups Flour
4 tablespoons Cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda
1/2 teaspoon Baking Powder
1/2 teaspoon Salt
1-1/2 cups Ginger Ale
4 Tilapia Fillets
12 Jumbo Shrimp (13-16 count)
Oil for frying

Mix together the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder and salt in a large mixing bowl then heat the ginger ale for 1 minute in the microwave and mix with the dry ingredients until well combined.

Coat the fish and shrimp in the batter, deep fry in batches in 350-degree canola oil over medium high heat until golden brown.

Today I’m serving my Seafood Fry with French Fries. One of these days I’ll serve this with Hush Puppies – even if I’m the only one who appreciates this truly Southern speciality.

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I will send to you the Spirit of truth, says the Lord;
he will guide you to all truth.