What is Fastnacht?
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the church year's Lenten season. Around the world, Christians prepare for Lent with traditions which not only use up butter, eggs, and meat - traditional Lenten denials, but which also offer a bit of hilarious frivolity just before the somber season of Lent begins.
Pre-Lenten foolishness goes by various names: Shrove Tuesday, Carneval, Mardi Gras, and Fastnacht.
Saint Matthew's gives a nod to both Fastnacht and Mardi Gras origins by borrowing the German name to describe a fellowship event featuring an Italian potluck supper for all and a carnival for the young children.
Saint Matthew's talent show, however, employs the farcical costumes and uninhibited revelry of Fastnacht and Mardi Gras. Fastnacht at Saint Matthew's occurs on the Sunday Evening before Ash Wednesday.
Each year, Fastnacht has a theme chosen by
the Christian Education committee and has ranged from Disney-themed
nights to this year's A Night at the Oscars. Great food and fun
are staples of this night, and this night is one that will not be soon
forgotten! Come Join the Fun!
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