Flapjack feast in Roxborough

For many Christians, this Tuesday marked Shrove Tuesday, the last day before the 40-day Lenten period of fasting and reflection.

It’s also called Mardi Gras, Fat Tuesday and Pancake Day because it represents a day of feasting before the fasting begins with Ash Wednsday.

The pancake-eating ritual originated from Christians who traditionally used up all of their eggs, butter and milk – which were forbidden during Lent – to make pancakes the night before the fast.

Many parishes in Northwest Philadelphia, including St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church in Roxborough, continue that tradition each year by hosting all-you-can-eat pancake suppers on Tuesday night. Dozens of local residents showed up to the church this year to enjoy one last fatty feast before the start of Lent.

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