Can you eat chicken breast on Good Friday?

Answered by Michael Wilson

You can eat chicken breast on Good Friday. According to the Roman Catholic church, Good Friday is a day of fasting and abstinence, which means that Catholics are encouraged to abstain from eating meat. However, the church does allow for certain exceptions to this rule.

In general, the rule of abstinence applies to the flesh of mammals and birds, such as beef, pork, lamb, and poultry. This means that chicken is technically considered meat and should be avoided on Good Friday.

However, there are some situations where the church allows for an exception to the abstinence rule. For example, if a person has health issues that require them to eat meat, they may be excused from abstaining from it on Good Friday. Additionally, if a person has a physical labor job or is engaged in strenuous physical activity, they may also be exempt from the abstinence requirement.

It’s important to note that these exceptions may vary depending on the specific guidelines set by the local bishop or diocese. Therefore, it is always a good idea to consult with your local parish or priest to understand the specific rules and exceptions that apply to your particular situation.

In my personal experience, I have encountered different interpretations of the rules regarding abstinence on Good Friday. Some individuals choose to strictly adhere to the rule and avoid all types of meat, including chicken, while others may make exceptions based on their personal circumstances or local customs.

Ultimately, the decision to eat chicken on Good Friday is a personal one, and it is important to consider the intent behind the abstinence rule. The purpose of abstaining from meat is to participate in the sacrifice of Jesus, who gave up his flesh for the salvation of humanity. So, while it may be permissible to eat chicken on Good Friday in certain situations, it is worth reflecting on the spiritual significance of the day and making a decision that aligns with one’s beliefs and personal relationship with God.