Mardi Gras

Today at St. Augustine starting at 6 PM, we will have our now annual Mardi Gras celebration. 

“Mardi Gras,” meaning “Fat Tuesday” in French, has its origins in Medieval Europe.  It is also known as “Carnival” in some places, which comes from the Latin “carne vale” (“good bye [vale] meat [carne]”). It is a kick-off to Lent where people get a “last hurrah,” if you will, before the penitential season of Lent begins tomorrow on Ash Wednesday.

 

There are certain traditions, for example, the wearing of masks. In the past, the wearing of masks allowed people to cross cultural barriers giving people anonymity thereby allowing people of different social classes to mix. 

 

Let us pray:  Gracious God, we pray that all of those who participate in Mardi Gras this evening will remember that you are the giver of all good things, and that in you is perfect freedom.  Amen.

 

CALENDAR REMINDERS

 

Today, Tuesday at 6 PM, Mardi Gras hosted by the Taylors.  Enjoy the DJ, dancing, the food and fellowship.

 

Ash Wednesday at 6 PM with imposition of ashes and Eucharist.

 

Please remember everyone on our Prayer List.

 

Your servant in Christ,

 

Fr. Chester J. Makowski+

St. Augustine of Hippo Episcopal Church

Galveston, Texas 77550