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Dear Christine, What happens if I violate my vow to give up a certain thing for Lent? A.B. Dear A.B., You can go to confession. You fallen away Catholics and others just trying Lent out for the heck of it might think of something else you haven’t indulged in since the beginning of Lent, and claim that other thing as the REAL thing you are giving up for Lent. Also, you might amend your Lenten intention to indicate that you meant to only give up the specified activity on certain days. Many serious Catholics give up meat on Fridays during Lent, which is a terrific boon to the seafood restaurant industry in Louisiana. Not sure any of these alternatives will keep you out of hell, but you might give them a try. _________ Dear Christine, This is a little off topic, but what happens if I go to confession and confess to being a heretic? Marjory L. Dear Marjory, Well, again, I’d guess you are at serious risk of burning in hell. Best cut out being a heretic. __________ Dear Christine, How come it’s Lent and Spillway Review is still celebrating Mardi Gras? Bosco Dear Bosco, Good question. I think it’s because people are just now getting around to sending their stuff in AFTER they have participated in Mardi Gras. I invite the editors to respond. __________ Dear Christine, Who are the people in the parades? Do they hire people for this? Wilma Rangusa M. Dear WRM, No, the people generally pay to be in the parades. They are in social clubs or organizations called Krewes, and they pay dues and fees. The clubs often include New Orleans’ social elite – bankers, lawyers and the like. Many of the organizations are secret, I suppose so that folks won’t be recognized as having been so silly during Mardi Gras when they show up as president of the bank, or in a similar role on Ash Wednesday. __________ Dear Christine, Can people who don't live in New Orleans be in the Krewes and ride on floats? Evan X. Fitzgerald (no relation) Dear Evan X. Fitzgerald (no relation), Yes, I think it is possible to ride on a float even if you are from out of town. Contact the Krewe that attracts your fancy. Some Krewes are secretive, but some have websites. |