The home opener at PNC Park on Friday is usually a day for tailgating with drinks hot dogs and hamburgers, but for many Catholics attending the game, they may need to substitute fish.
The Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh released a statement on Wednesday that they have received notes from some parishioners asking about if the Church will offer a special dispensation from “fasting and abstinence” on Good Friday, because it falls in line with the Pirates home opener.
Catholics believe Good Friday is the day Jesus was hung on the cross and died, allowing believers to achieve salvation.
“Fasting and abstinence is part of what we practice communally that day, out of respect, reverence, and deep gratitude for God’s sacrifice and love,” the Diocese said in a statement. “We wish the Pirates well, and we will be rooting for them with all of Pittsburgh.”
While they will be rooting for the Pirates, the diocese says, “we also need to hold to the priority importance of Good Friday. It is an essential part of the most sacred time of year for all Christians. Nothing should take precedence.”