Catholic bishops in Fargo, Crookston to allow corned beef on St. Patrick’s Day, with a catch

Fargo Catholic Bishop John Folda

FARGO (KFGO KVRR) – Catholics aren’t typically supposed to eat meat on Fridays during Lent. But on Friday March 17, they’ll be getting a break, depending on where they live.

The bishops of the Fargo Diocese and the Crookston Diocese are dispensing with the order this year so Catholics can celebrate a traditional St. Patrick’s Day with corned beef and cabbage. However, there’s a catch.

Diocese of Fargo Bishop John Folda says Catholics who eat meat on St. Patrick’s Day must abstain on any other day until March 23.

For Catholics who reside in northwest Minnesota, Crookston Bishop Andrew Cozzens says those who take advantage of the offer should perform a work of charity or another good deed during the third week of Lent.

Catholics in the Bismarck Diocese are out of luck. Bishop David Kagan says he will not be granting a similar dispensation.