2024-03-26 16:53:40
In the prelude to Holy Week, a time of reflection and meditation for the Catholic believers, a series of deep-rooted traditions and customs emerge that They go beyond simply abstaining from consuming red meat.
Although this practice is known by the majority, there are other actions that, according to several who profess this faith, should be avoided during this sacred period.
During the eight days of Holy Week, those who practice the Catholic faith spend time reflecting on the events that led to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Therefore, in this period, in addition to participating in specific rituals and traditions, certain behavioral patterns are also observed.
As Holy Week progresses, some believers follow different practices, which may intensify especially during the Holy Friday, day that commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus.
According to canon law, “in the universal Church, penitential days and times are every Friday of the year and the season of Lent.”
Below you can review some practices, rooted in the catholic tradition, that some believers practice on these dates.
1. Abstinence from red meat
One of the most deeply rooted traditions during Holy Week is the custom of abstaining from consuming red meat, mainly on Good Friday, in commemoration of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Besides, It is a call for penitence from the Church, in pursuit of demonstrating humility and modesty.
“Every Friday, unless they coincide with a solemnity, abstinence from meat or other food determined by the Episcopal Conference must be observed; Fasting and abstinence (from meat) will be observed on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday,” says canon law. “The law of abstinence obliges those who have reached the age of fourteen; “that of fasting, to all those of legal age, until they have reached fifty-nine years.”
2. Some avoid wearing red clothes
Beyond abstinence from meat, another highlight this season is the choice of clothing. Many people prefer to avoid the color red, as some associate it with the Devil. According to La Nación, more sober tones such as black are preferred instead, as a sign of respect and meditation. It is worth mentioning that it is not an imposition of the Church, in fact, there are priests who wear red clothing at this time.
3. Moderation and avoid excesses
Holy Week also invites moderation in various aspects of daily life. Although there are no strict prohibitions, many faithful choose to avoid excesses in alcohol consumption and food. Also, according to Business Insider, it is recommended not to play cards, dominoes or games of chance.
4. Some choose sexual abstinence
In line with the spirit of penitence and recollection that defines Holy Week, some believers choose to abstain from sexual relations during these days. This practice seeks to honor the sacrifice of Jesus Christ and focus on prayer and spiritual reflection. Although it is one of the best known dogmas, There is no official doctrine of the Church that prohibits it.
“On Good Friday you should avoid actions that can hurt people and have a good relationship with your family. More than fasting and maintaining abstinence, what the church asks in this season is to strengthen those relationships and vindicate our bad actions,” parish priest Luis Carlos Ayala of the Diocese of Zipaquirá told El Comercio.
5. Do not drive nails
This is a lesser known tradition, but one that may be equally meaningful to some people, which is not driving nails on Good Friday. For many faithful, this action represents the suffering of Jesus on the cross, so they prefer to refrain from performing it as a sign of respect and devotion.
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