Back in the Middle Ages, Christians were prohibited from eating any meat at all during Lent.

Fish was permitted, regarded, somehow, as equivalent to fasting (go figure).  Thus the now quaint and largely disregarded modern notion of having to abstain from eating meat on Fridays, which became the day for fish sticks in Catholic school cafeterias.

And the quaint tradition has become the mainstay of Catholic church fund-raising dinners during Lent. Everyone has a favorite fish fry location.  But St. James Episcopal Church in Pewee Valley has decided to alter the menu,  Since March 7, though the end of Lent April 11, Fridays are Lenten Pasta Nights at St. James’.

Each Friday, 5-7 p.m. during Lent, a different kind of pasta—long or tubular or twisted for pinched into a bow tie—will be served with a choice of two sauces, meatless marinara (red sauce) or a creamy Alfredo (white) sauce. Salad and bread will also be served, and soft drinks and water are for sale. Take out too.  Prices are $5 for the pasta and salad, and $1 for drinks. Cash or checks only, please. No credit cards.

St. James’ Episcopal Church
401 LaGrange Road
Pewee Valley, KY 40056

If you’d still like to try a fish fry for your lenten supper, here is a list of Parish fish fries around Louisville.