Who observes Shrove Tuesday (burning of the palms) besides Catholics and Episcopalians?
Shrove Tuesday is the English name for a traditional celebration on the night before Ash Wednesday, which begins the penitential season of Lent. It is observed widely throughout Christian lands, from Poland to Pennsylvania, from Germany to Sweden. It has various names, such as Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday), Pancake Tuesday, Malasada Day (Hawaii), Carnival Tuesday (Portugal), and more. Because Lent was a time for plain foods and avoiding rich ingredients such as those used in pancakes, the Tuesday before Lent became a day to use up those rich ingredients. Hence, the association with pancakes. I’m not familiar with any widespread tradition to burn palms on Shrove Tuesday, except possibly as a matter of convenience in getting ashes ready for Ash Wednesday.
