News Summary
As Lent begins, Mission Viejo’s St. Kilian’s parish celebrates its annual fish fry, a cherished tradition that serves delicious meals and raises funds for the community. With both drive-through and dine-in options, the event has become a staple for locals and visitors alike. Meals are affordable, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy. Volunteers contribute their time and effort, fostering community spirit while providing options like cod or salmon with various side dishes. The fish fry not only satisfies appetites but also connects people through a time-honored tradition.
Mission Viejo Kicks Off Lenten Fish Fry Season
As the season of Lent rolls around, Mission Viejo finds itself swept up in a delightful tradition: the annual fish fry hosted by St. Kilian’s parish. This beloved event isn’t just about enjoying a good meal; it’s become a significant fundraising effort for the parish, bringing the community together for both delicious food and a great cause.
A Fish Fry Like No Other
Every year, as the calendar marks the days leading to Easter, St. Kilian’s transforms into a hub of activity and culinary delight. According to the parish’s pastor, Fr. Angelos Sebastian, this fish fry is touted as the best in the entire Diocese of Orange. Why? It’s a large-scale operation that offers both drive-through and dine-in options, making it incredibly accessible for everyone in the community.
The numbers say it all; on busy nights, the fish fry is known to serve between 400 and 500 dinners via the drive-through alone. And for those who prefer to dine in, the parish hall can accommodate up to 1,500 diners, creating a bustling yet welcoming atmosphere that draws people in from near and far.
Wallet-Friendly Meals
The best part? Meals are priced very reasonably at just $15 each, with vegetarian options available for $10. Such low prices mean that families can enjoy a hearty dinner without breaking the bank, making it an easy choice for many, regardless of their backgrounds. In fact, many attendees are not even Catholic; they come simply for the fantastic food and the chance to mingle with their neighbors. It’s amazing how food can be a true unifier in the community!
Each year, St. Kilian’s aims to raise around $100,000 by the time Holy Week arrives, marking this fish fry as their biggest fundraiser of the year. This has resulted in the event becoming a staple of the Lenten season, which has been delighting fish lovers for over 20 years.
Community Spirit and Volunteer Power
What really sets this event apart is the involvement of the parish’s many volunteers who prepare everything from the scrumptious fish to the mouth-watering side dishes. Teens in the community often find themselves volunteering as servers, giving them a chance to contribute while having fun. It’s a wonderful experience that fosters community spirit and encourages the younger generation to get involved.
Diners have the choice between cod or salmon, paired with an impressive selection of six side dishes, cozy bread, and various desserts to satisfy their sweet tooth. You could say that this event has something for everyone!
A Tradition Steeped in History
It’s fascinating to think about the historical significance of this fish fry tradition. The practice of eating fish on Fridays has roots that trace back to early Christianity and was first mentioned by Pope Gregory I in 590. The St. Kilian’s fish fry not only connects attendees to their faith, but it also allows them to partake in a time-honored tradition that has withstood the test of time.
Long-time parish members like Marie Burrell have attended for many years. This year, her family made a switch from drive-through to dine-in, embracing the full atmosphere that the fish fry provides. It’s moments like these that show how traditions evolve, yet the core joy remains unchanged.
As Mission Viejo gears up for another memorable fish fry season, there’s no doubt that this community event is here to stay, serving delicious meals and creating lasting connections for all who partake. So, whether you’re a seasoned diner or a first-time visitor, come on down and enjoy the festivities. Your taste buds—and your community—will thank you!
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Additional Resources
- OC Register: St. Kilian Packs Up Friday Night Fish Fry To Go
- OC Register: Fish Fry – Here’s Where You Catch ‘Em
- OC Register: Costa Mesa Fish Fry Moves From Longtime Home
- Eater San Diego: Best Fish Tacos in San Diego
- Wikipedia: Friday Fish Fry
