Shrove Tuesday

Do you ever wonder why we have a "Pancake Day"?

Its church name is Shrove Tuesday, the day before the beginning of Lent on Ash Wednesday.

Shrove comes from the word "shrive" which means to confess and to be forgiven.

Before Lent, Christians would go to confession and start Lent with a "clean slate".

Lent was a time to prepare spiritually for Easter by prayer, fasting, giving up rich foods, and eating sparingly and simply.

Pancakes, with oil, sugar and milk, was a great way to use up the rich foods avoided during Lent, AND pancakes were a delicious excuse for a party before the solemnity of Lent.

This year you are encouraged to host an "at home Pancake Day" with family and friends!

If you would like, pictures of your festivities can be sent to familyministry@stjohnthedivine.bc.ca for sharing at our annual vestry meeting.