
St. Patrick Absolution Decree
Feb 28, 2023
The optional March 17 memorial to Saint Patrick falls on a Friday this year, a day of abstinence from meat during the season of Lent. Part of the celebration of this great saint is often a meal which includes meat, specifically a traditional Irish fare which includes corned beef. Inquiry has been made of whether in honor of the saint a dispensation might be granted from the obligatory day of abstinence. I hereby decree that those who participate in an event remembering Saint Patrick where meat is served are dispensed from the obligation to abstain from meat with the proviso that another form of penance be undertaken on that day.For those who do not participate in such a memorial to Saint Patrick the day of abstinence remains as a sign of the penitential call of Lent.Saint Patrick, pray…