Dispensation from Lenten Abstinence on St. Patrick's Day, March 17, 2023

The abstinence from meat on Fridays of Lent is an significant element of the penitential nature of this holy season. This year, however, Friday of the Third Week of Lent (March 17) is an occasion for Saint Patrick’s Day celebration in a number of parishes or schools in our Diocese. Having judged that it would contribute to the spiritual good of the faithful, Bishop Cantú has granted to the faithful of the Diocese of San Jose, as well as to any visitors or travelers who may be physically present within the territory of this diocese, a dispensation from the obligation of abstinence from meat on March 17, 2023.

Those taking advantage of the dispensation are encouraged to undertake a work of charity, an exercise of piety, or an act of penance on some other occasion during the Second Week of Lent.