You may know today (February 13) as the festival of Mardi Gras, but for thousands in Airdrie's Catholic community, it's more than a celebration. Today marks the final day before lent, commonly known as Shrove Tuesday.

 In Airdrie, hundreds gathered at St. Martin de Porres High School to commemorate the day. Principal Greg Masterston explained a little more about the day's significance.

"Historically people fasted from meat and all animal products such as eggs, milk and butter throughout the Lenten season. Shrove Tuesday, or as it's sometimes called Mardi Gras or Fat Tuesday, is a chance to use up all of that as we prepare for Lent to come."

The community at St. Martin de Porres took part in their traditional pancake brunch which was prepared with help from the Knights of Columbus of Airdrie.

Hundreds of pancakes were served during the Shrove Tuesday celebrations at St. Martin de Porres (Photo Courtesy: Greg Masterson)

With today's festivities wrapping up, the attention now turns to the start of lent during Ash Wednesday tomorrow. Masterson says the school will once again gather to commemorate the occasion.

"We do a Lenten liturgy for Ash Wednesday where our student body comes together. We have the liturgy, the readings and we focus on fasting, acts of service, charity and prayer."

Masterson says in all his years as an educator, he's encouraged to constantly see students embracing this important aspect of the Catholic faith.

"It's great to see our school community come together like that. I think our students see the importance of reflecting on who they are and bringing themselves closer to God. Certainly, we feel very blessed to have Catholic education here in Airdrie."

Ash Wednesday will begin the season of Lent, which wraps up on Easter Sunday.

 

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