Quick Answer
Catholics are expected to abstain from eating meat on Holy Thursday and Holy Saturday as part of the observance of Lent and Holy Week. The tradition of abstaining from meat on these days commemorates Christ’s sacrifice on Good Friday and serves as a form of penance. However, some exceptions may apply for health reasons or based on the norms set by individual bishops’ conferences. Ultimately, Catholics should follow the guidance provided by their local parish and bishop regarding meat consumption on Holy Thursday and Holy Saturday.
What is Holy Thursday?
Holy Thursday, also known as Maundy Thursday, is the Thursday before Easter and commemorates the Last Supper, when Jesus Christ shared the Passover meal with his disciples on the night before his crucifixion. During the Last Supper, Jesus washed the feet of his disciples as an act of humility and service, and he instituted the Eucharist, instructing his disciples to “do this in memory of me” (Luke 22:19).
The evening Mass on Holy Thursday begins the Triduum, the three days culminating in Easter Sunday that commemorate Christ’s Passion, death, and Resurrection. The liturgy on Holy Thursday focuses on the institution of the Eucharist and the priesthood. Popular devotional practices include visiting the Blessed Sacrament at a “Seven Churches Visitation,” where people go to seven different churches after Mass to pray, and the ceremonial washing of feet, patterned after Jesus’ act of service at the Last Supper.
What is Holy Saturday?
Holy Saturday is the last day of Holy Week and the day before Easter Sunday. It commemorates the day that Jesus Christ lay in the tomb after his crucifixion, before his resurrection on Easter Sunday. Holy Saturday liturgically marks the transition from the solemn remembrance of Christ’s Passion to the joyful celebration of his Resurrection.
The Easter Vigil Mass held on Saturday night is the first celebration of Easter and commemorates Christ’s rising from the dead. It begins in darkness and gradually moves to light with the lighting of the Easter fire, the lighting of the Paschal candle, and the chanting of the Exsultet. The Vigil includes Old Testament readings that anticipate Christ’s resurrection, the blessing of Easter water, and the celebration of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist for new members entering the Church.
Can Catholics eat meat on Holy Thursday?
Catholics are expected to abstain from eating meat on Holy Thursday as part of the observance of Lent and Holy Week. According to the Code of Canon Law, “The penitential days and times in the universal Church are every Friday of the whole year and the season of Lent” (Canon 1250). Abstinence from eating meat on Lenten Fridays, including Holy Thursday, is one of the traditional penitential practices during this liturgical season.
Abstinence from meat is a form of sacrifice and penance that allows Catholics to unite themselves with Christ’s death on the cross on Good Friday. By giving up something significant like meat, Catholics deny themselves a major source of pleasure and offer this small sacrifice to God. Abstaining from meat also helps to purify the body and soul in preparation for Easter.
However, individual bishops’ conferences can establish alternative regulations for abstinence, so Catholics should refer to local guidance. Some bishops allow the substitution of another penance or charitable act in place of abstaining from meat on Lenten Fridays. Those who are ill or have health conditions requiring meat are generally exempt from abstinence as well. Ultimately, Catholics should follow the specific norms given by their bishop for their diocese regarding the expectation to abstain from meat.
Exceptions to Abstinence from Meat on Holy Thursday
While abstaining from meat on Holy Thursday is the typical requirement, the following are some exceptions that could apply:
– Those with health conditions or medical concerns requiring meat intake may be exempt from abstinence.
– Children under the age of 14 or another minimum age set by the bishops are generally not required to abstain from meat.
– Some bishops allow performing an alternative penance or charitable act instead of abstaining from meat.
– Those traveling or visiting another diocese may follow the norms of their home diocese rather than the diocese they are visiting.
– Some dioceses have allowed more flexibility around abstaining from meat on Lenten Fridays while maintaining the obligation to fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday.
If in doubt about the requirement to abstain from meat, Catholics should check with their local parish or diocese for definitive guidance based on canon law and the policies set forth by their bishop.
Can Catholics eat meat on Holy Saturday?
Similar to Holy Thursday, Catholics are expected to abstain from meat on Holy Saturday as part of the overall observance of Lent, Holy Week, and the Triduum. The somber, reflective nature of Holy Saturday as the commemoration of Christ in the tomb calls for a continuation of the Good Friday spirit of penance and sacrifice.
However, the same exceptions could apply as mentioned above for Holy Thursday. The obligation to abstain from meat may be waived for health reasons, certain age groups, or performing an alternative penance. Some dioceses also allow more overall flexibility around abstaining from meat on Lenten Fridays. Catholics should follow the norms established by their local bishop for their diocese regarding the expectation to abstain from meat on Holy Saturday.
It is important to note that while Holy Saturday is part of the Lenten season, it takes on a unique character as the final day of the Triduum before the celebration of Easter Sunday. The Mass on Holy Saturday night is the Easter Vigil, so some dioceses distinguish this liturgy from other Lenten days and do not require abstinence from meat at the Easter Vigil meal. Catholics should check their diocesan guidelines to see if any exceptions for Holy Saturday are specified.
Guidelines from the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has set forth the following general norms for abstinence from meat in the U.S.:
– Abstinence from meat is to be observed on Ash Wednesday, Good Friday, and all Fridays of Lent for those age 14 and older.
– Abstinence from meat is encouraged but voluntary on Holy Thursday and Holy Saturday, although some dioceses may still require it.
– The obligation to abstain from meat can be substituted with another suitable penance at the discretion of the individual.
– Those with health concerns requiring meat are exempt from abstinence.
So according to these national guidelines, U.S. Catholics are not strictly required to abstain from meat on Holy Thursday and Holy Saturday but are encouraged to continue Lenten abstinence. However, individual dioceses can impose stricter requirements, so Catholics should still consult their local parish or bishop if uncertain.
Other Lenten Practices on Holy Thursday and Holy Saturday
In addition to abstaining from meat, Catholics also traditionally fast on both Holy Thursday and Holy Saturday. Fasting involves eating only one full meal for the day and two smaller meals not equaling a full meal.
Like abstinence, fasting allows Catholics to practice sacrifice and self-denial while uniting more closely with Christ’s suffering. Those with medical conditions, pregnant or nursing mothers, and younger children are among those excused from fasting.
Catholics also traditionally increase their almsgiving, prayer, spiritual reading, and works of charity during Lent and especially during Holy Week. Attending the liturgies of the Triduum – Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and the Easter Vigil – is an integral way to participate in the most sacred days of the Church year.
Past Standards for Abstinence and Fasting
While modern canon law gives some flexibility regarding abstinence and fasting, the regulations used to be much more rigid and strictly enforced. Up until 1966, Catholics were required to abstain from meat on all Fridays of the year, not just during Lent. The regulations on fasting were also far more extensive in the past.
In 1966, Pope Paul VI issued the apostolic constitution Paenitemini which substantially reduced and simplified the canonical requirements for penitential days and seasons. Previously, fasting and complete abstinence from meat were required for over 40 days of the year. The current Lenten practice of fasting on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday and abstaining from meat on Fridays was the minimal requirement after Paenitemini.
The former strict regulations underline the importance of Lent, Holy Week, and the Triduum in the Catholic liturgical calendar. Today, while the canonical obligations have been relaxed, many Catholics still choose to maintain the older traditions of abstinence and fasting during this penitential season.
Reasons for Abstaining from Meat
The Catholic practice of abstaining from meat has numerous symbolic meanings and spiritual benefits:
– It commemorates Christ’s sacrifice of his flesh on Good Friday. By giving up meat, we unite our small sacrifice to Christ’s suffering.
– Going without meat is a form of penance that brings us closer to God. It disciplines our bodily appetites and helps purify the soul.
– Abstaining from meat on Fridays echoes Christ’s death on that day of the week. It serves as a weekly memorial and reminder of Christ’s passion.
– Not eating meat fosters a spirit of self-denial and mortification. This purifies us and detaches us from worldly things.
– Abstinence and fasting help us to be detached from the pleasures of the world and more focused on spiritual nourishment.
– By abstaining from meat, we practice obedience to the Church and participate more fully in the rhythm of the liturgical calendar.
– Giving up meat traditionally was also a means of special remembrance of Christ’s sacrifice during Lent and the Triduum.
Papal Teachings on Abstinence and Fasting
Various papal teachings over the centuries have instructed the faithful about the importance of fasting and abstaining from meat:
– Pope Paul VI’s 1966 constitution Paenitemini said fasting and abstinence “are most suitable as a sign of the Christian’s interior penance.”
– Pope Paul VI’s apostolic constitution Poenitemini (1966) said abstinence “teaches each one of us to deny himself, and to take up the cross.”
– Pope Benedict XIV’s 1741 encyclical Non ambigimus said abstinence and fasting for “afflicting our bodies” have “always been the sacred institution of all pious persons.”
– Pope Leo I declared in a sermon (c. 450) that “abstinence from food, which the nature of the created world dictates, loosens the chains of evil desire…The deadly poison of concupiscence is blunted by the austerity of abstinence.”
– St. John Paul II said Lenten penance aims for “interior and exterior acts of self-denial and fraternal charity” and the Lenten fast declares that “man does not live by bread alone but by every word that comes from God” (Message for Lent, 1997).
Health Concerns and Meatless Fridays
For most healthy adults, abstaining from meat one or two days per week does not pose health risks and may even provide some benefits:
– Reducing meat intake lowers saturated fat and can help prevent heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and cancer.
– Substituting plant-based protein like beans, legumes, nuts, seeds, eggs, dairy provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
– Seafood like fish and shellfish contains omega-3 fatty acids that support brain and heart health.
– Meatless meals centered on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and plant protein help meet nutritional needs.
However, certain groups may need to take extra care to get sufficient protein, iron, zinc, vitamin B12 and other nutrients from non-meat sources:
– Pregnant or breastfeeding mothers have increased nutrition needs to support a baby.
– Children and adolescents require more protein for growth and development.
– Elderly adults tend to absorb less vitamin B12 and may need supplementation.
– Those with conditions like celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, or gastric bypass have impaired nutrient absorption.
If concerned about maintaining proper nutrition and health on meatless days, it is advisable to consult with a doctor or registered dietitian.
Tips for Healthy, Nutritious Meatless Meals
When abstaining from meat, follow these tips to meet all your nutritional requirements:
– Incorporate good plant-based sources of protein like beans, lentils, tofu, tempeh, nuts, seeds.
– Include dairy and eggs for additional high-quality protein.
– Eat seafood like fish and shellfish 2-3 times per week.
– Fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables for nutrients like vitamin C, folate, potassium.
– Choose whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, oats, and barley for fiber.
– Take vitamin B12 and iron supplements if deficient.
– Cook with healthy oils like olive oil and eat avocados.
– Season with herbs, spices, garlic, lemon to amplify flavor.
– Drink plenty of water and watch sodium intake if increasing beans or processed meat alternatives.
| Meatless Protein Source | Key Nutrients Provided |
|---|---|
| Beans (black, kidney, etc.) | Protein, fiber, iron, potassium, magnesium, folate |
| Lentils | Protein, fiber, iron, potassium, folate |
| Tofu | Protein, calcium |
| Tempeh | Protein, probiotics |
| Nuts and seeds | Protein, healthy fats |
| Eggs | Protein, vitamin B12, iron |
| Fish and shellfish | Protein, omega-3 fats |
| Dairy | Protein, calcium, vitamin B12 |
| Whole grains | Protein, fiber, B vitamins |
Traditional Catholic Meatless Meals
Catholics have developed many nourishing, flavorful meatless dishes perfect for Holy Thursday, Holy Saturday, and Lenten Fridays. Here are some traditional recipes:
– Seafood chowders, stews, and bisques using clams, cod, crab, shrimp, or oysters
– Soups and stews with beans, lentils, peas, and vegetables
– Egg and dairy dishes like frittatas, quiches, eggplant Parmesan, pasta carbonara
– Whole grain bowls with barley, farro, brown rice or quinoa
– Vegetable tarts, galettes, tortes, and stratas
– Bean burritos, enchiladas, tacos, tamales, and other Mexican fare
– Pasta with marinara sauce, pesto sauce, or olive oil and garlic
– Cheese-stuffed shells, manicotti, ravioli, tortellini
– Vegetable curries and stir fries served over rice
– Rice and bean dishes like hoppin’ john, red beans and rice
– Meatless versions of mushroom bourguignon, eggplant Parmesan, stuffed peppers
Holy Thursday and Holy Saturday Traditions
In addition to abstaining from meat, Catholics can observe other meaningful traditions on Holy Thursday and Holy Saturday:
Holy Thursday:
– Attend Mass commemorating the Last Supper and Christ’s institution of the Eucharist.
– Participate in the foot washing ritual following Christ’s example of humble service.
– Visit several churches for the Seven Churches Visitation devotion.
– Spend time in Eucharistic Adoration.
– Get a pedilavium, or foot washing, from the parish priest.
Holy Saturday:
– Offer prayers and devotion in reverent waiting for the Easter Vigil and Resurrection.
– Decorate the home and prepare festive foods in anticipation of Easter celebrations.
– Abstain from ordinary work to honor Christ’s repose in the tomb.
– Reflect on Christ’s sacrificial love and prepare spiritually for Easter.
– Light a votive candle to symbolize waiting in hope for Christ’s return.
– Donate time or funds to charities in keeping with Lenten almsgiving.
– Visit the Blessed Sacrament at your church tabernacle.
Conclusion
Holy Thursday and Holy Saturday take on a somber, reflective tone as part of the sacred Triduum commemorating Christ’s Passion. By continuing the Lenten devotion of abstaining from meat on these holy days, Catholics unite themselves more closely with the redemptive sacrifice of Good Friday. This act of sacrifice and self-denial prepares the faithful spiritually for the joyous celebration of new life on Easter Sunday. While meatless meals are meant as a simple yet meaningful form of penance, Catholics can also perform other acts of prayer, charity and devotion to mark Holy Thursday and Holy Saturday in a spirit of faithful observance.
