Lent and Catfish in Southeast Texas

LIBERTY, February 8, 2005 - The period of fasting and penance long known as "Lent' originated during biblical times. This time of self-denial was meant to focus each person inwardly on their own spirituality. As a sacrifice, people would forgo the consumption of meat each Friday, replacing it with fish. Meat was associated with celebrations and rejoicing; to forgo meat was to make a great sacrifice during those times.

For some, the Lenten Holiday has evolved to become a statement, privately and publicly, of spiritual commitment, regardless of their religion or denomination.

Consuming fish, rather than meat, on Fridays has become a conscious effort toward healthy eating habits. Spiritually, many people associate fish as being symbolically nourished by Christ, thus becoming closer to him.

One of the most famous events of modern times is the Mardi Gras festival, the largest of which is held each year on Fat Tuesday in New Orleans, LA. This festival's roots are in the Catholic Church. To this day the color purple is a prevalent part of the decorating scheme, again, dating back to biblical times.

Whether for the religious significance, health reasons, or just because you like it, you should consider catfish a primary ingredient on your Lenten menu.