Central Catholic Holds Fat Tuesday Food Fair on March 4

Mar 4

Central Catholic held its annual Food Fair for students and staffulty on Tuesday, March 4 in the senior cafeteria during student lunches. Twelve different student groups, including sports teams, student council, clubs, and other organizations, brought in food from restaurants or homemade items to sell at the Food Fair. The money raised supports the different student groups and helps cover their expenses throughout the school year.

Students enjoyed items like pizza, tacos, nachos, tamales and Spanish rice, fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, root beer floats, and other drinks and sweet treats.

The Food Fair is held on Fat Tuesday, which marks the last day of ordinary time before the start of Lent. The intent of the day has always been to indulge and celebrate, within the context of Catholic morality and reason, on the last day before Lent, which is a time of fasting, reflection, and repentance.

“The Food Fair is a tradition at Central Catholic on Fat Tuesday, or Mardi Gras, as we prepare for Lent beginning on Ash Wednesday,” said Principal Morgan Connors (Class of 2011). “We feast and enjoy each other's company, along with a variety of food offerings from various clubs, organizations, and cultures, in our cafeteria. Our students also get the chance to learn business and economics skills in a hands-on environment.”

From Dynamic Catholic’s guide to Fat Tuesday:

“We feast as a reminder of God’s abundant generosity and the goodness of life. We fast to train our bodies and souls to rely more fully upon God.

Fat Tuesday is the great feast before Lenten fasts begin. Traditionally, Catholics have embraced Fat Tuesday as a way to get rid of all the fats and desserts in the house in preparation for Lent. With these tempting goodies already consumed, it’s easier to more fully engage in Lent and experience spiritual growth.

The deeper meaning for Fat Tuesday actually comes from its traditional name, Shrove Tuesday. The word “shrove” means to give absolution - to be forgiven! Shrove Tuesday is an invitation to reflect on your life, seek forgiveness and peace, and get ready for 40 days of spiritual renewal during Lent.”