Reverend Shaun Sanders explains the real meaning behind Shrove Tuesday, or widely known as Pancake Day.
Ash Wednesday marks the start of Lent. This is a solemn season of reflection and penitence in the Christian calendar leading up to Good Friday and Easter Sunday. It is often a time for giving something up. Traditionally this has meant giving up certain food and drink such as chocolate, cakes and alcohol but more recently people have given up social media or finding other ways to live more simply. It might include taking on certain projects to help others or finding time for devotional reading. Special church services on this day often include ashing – the marking of the Cross on foreheads with ash.
Traditionally, the day before Ash Wednesday was a time for confession and absolution, or ‘shriving’. From this we get Shrove Tuesday. Over time, this day became more a day of feasting as people finished up their produce before the period of abstaining that was to follow. Many used their remaining eggs, butter and milk to make pancakes. Hence the tradition of pancakes on Shrove Tuesday and the day is often known as Pancake Day.
In some countries, this day is known as Mardi Gras, which is simply French for ‘fat Tuesday’, reflecting the practice of finishing up rich, fatty foods before Lent. Mardi Gras is a time of colourful carnivals and celebrations.
Since the date of Easter can vary depending when the full moon appears after the spring equinox, this means that the date of Shrove Tuesday can vary from between 3rd February to 9th March. Some churches have special services on Shrove Tuesday. As well as prayers, readings and hymns, they will also make pancakes!
Revd Shaun Sanders is a Methodist minister in Barnet, North London.
He also enjoys photography and has his own online photo gallery at https://www.shaunsphotospace.com/