Bishop Joseph E. Strickland has issued a dispensation from the discipline of abstinence from meat on March 17, St. Patrick’s Day, for the faithful of the Diocese of Tyler
Normally, and by immemorial tradition, Catholics are bound to abstain from meat on the Fridays of Lent in remembrance of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. However, approximately every seven years, the Memorial of St. Patrick (March 17) falls on a Friday and many bishops dispense with the obligation in favor of allowing Irish-American customs. Without the dispensation, Catholics would not be able to enjoy foods traditionally associated with the celebration, namely corned beef and cabbage.
St. Patrick, was a fifth century missionary and bishop who brought Christianity to the island. He is the patron saint of Ireland and is known as the “Apostle of Ireland.”
To learn more about fasting and abstinence from meat during Lent, visit the USCCB’s information page.
