OAKVILLE, Mo. – Ash Wednesday happened to commence on Valentine’s Day this year.
It’s the start of the Lenten season for Catholics and the annual fish fry at Queen of All Saints Catholic Church in Oakville, Mo.
Lent is a 40-day season of prayer, fasting and giving that many Catholics and Christians observe in preparation for the resurrection of Christ, celebrated on Easter.
Earlier this afternoon, St. Thomas Holy Spirit Lutheran Church wrapped up their ninth annual “Ashes to Go” at about 4 p.m. Drivers were able to remain in their cars for a brief prayer and the imposition of ashes.
Eric Treptow, parish member for the Queen of All Saints, said that with the warmer temperatures today, they expect roughly 600–800 in attendance.
Eric also explained what they’ve done to prepare for this fish fry.
“Well, it started about two months ago with meetings and stuff but really… yesterday, we started thawing the fish, getting the green beans prepped and ready to heat them up today. Getting the pastas ready, the sauces ready, its really a parish event, a lot of people kick in from all over to help us. We’re gathering up desserts for today.. so it’s a big event for us,” Treptow said.
Queen of All Saints Fish Fry will take place every Friday during Lent except Good Friday, the Friday before Easter.
