From a reader:
On consulting my Ordo [for the Extraordinary Form] this coming Saturday is the feast of St. Thomas.
This supersedes the Ember Day which should be commemorated at the Mass of the day.
Should we still observe the Ember Day with respect to our diet for the day?
It is a penitential season: Advent.
It is a penitential day, and Ember Day, in the penitential season. Don’t let anyone tell you that Advent isn’t a penitential season.
It is a feast! Of an Apostle!
I respond saying:
Liturgically, do what the Ordo says!
However, you can still observe well the Ember Day by abstaining, if not fasting. Feast, just a … little.
May I recommend tempura? That is a fine way to remember the universality of the Church. HERE
Tempura reminds us also of the East, Japan. Thomas went to the East, India. Pray for those who are persecuted for their Christian Faith and the spread of the one true Faith in all those regions.
In honor of St. Thomas, reflect on what a gift it is to have your Catholic Faith as you have it.
