Today is Shrove Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of the Christian season of Lent.
Observed by many Christian traditions, including Anglicans, Lutherans, Methodists, and Roman Catholics, Shrove Tuesday is a time for self-examination, repentance, and spiritual preparation.
The name “Shrove” comes from the old English word shrive, meaning “to absolve.” On this day, Christians traditionally participate in confession and seek absolution for their sins, reflecting on areas of their lives where they seek spiritual growth with God’s guidance.
As the last day before the penitential season of Lent, Shrove Tuesday is also associated with celebrations that involve indulgence in foods that may be given up as part of one’s Lenten sacrifice. Pancakes, a popular choice, are made as a symbolic way to use up rich ingredients like eggs, butter, and sugar before the fasting season begins. In French-speaking cultures, the day is known as Mardi Gras - meaning “Fat Tuesday” - about the tradition of feasting on richer foods.
In many churches, the palms from last year’s Palm Sunday are burned today, providing the ashes for tomorrow’s Ash Wednesday services. These ashes are a reminder of our mortality and a call to repentance as we enter Lent.
As we mark this day at Mildmay, we encourage you to take a moment for reflection on what areas of your life may benefit from spiritual growth. Whether through confession, prayer, or simply a time of quiet contemplation, Shrove Tuesday offers an opportunity to prepare our hearts for the journey through Lent.
May this day be a meaningful step in your spiritual preparation for the season ahead.
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