On Ash Wednesday, Good Friday, and every Friday during Lent, people abstain from eating meat. During these days, it is not acceptable to eat lamb, chicken, beef, pork, ham, deer, and most other meats. However, eggs, milk, fish, grains, and fruits and vegetables are all allowed.
Being Jewish, I never had to observe Lent.
Growing up on Long Island, my neighborhood was filled with Catholic families. My best friend since childhood grew up in a Catholic family, which is how I learned about Lent and all the Catholic traditions and holidays. I learned a lot by occasionally attending church with my Catholic friends.
When I was 7 or 8, I accidentally received communion.
I went to church with my friends and when they approached the altar I followed and did everything they did. The minute I knelt in front of the priest, he held this shiny plate under my chin and said, “Body of Christ.” I froze like a deer in the headlights. I didn’t know what to do. The priest gently grabbed my chin to open my mouth and placed a wafer on my tongue. I didn’t know if I should swallow it or spit it out. My friends told me that it would dissolve In a few minutes.
I thought I was going to get in trouble with my mother and God because Jews don’t engage in the same practices as Catholics. It turned out ok. I’m still here and my mother laughed hysterically at me and said, “You’ll be fine.”
You live and learn.
There are many places, especially here on the Jersey Shore to grab a meal that aligns with observing Lent.
I mean, it’s the Jersey Shore! There are plenty of seafood markets, restaurants, and lots of places that serve vegan and vegetarian dishes.
I’m going to suggest some of my favorite places and include places favored by the members of some of the food pages on social media and message boards.
