Finned and Forgiven

Join Renee and Dan on a journey through time as they unravel the bizarre and hilarious tales of how the Catholic Church navigated dietary dilemmas during Lent in "Time Tellers". Discover the unexpected stories behind why creatures like beavers, capybaras, and even alligators found their way onto plates during fasting periods. This episode dives into the creative ecclesiastical decisions that turned warm-blooded animals into permissible Lenten fare, highlighting faith's adaptability in the face of practical challenges. From the icy terrains of 17th century Canada to the rivers of South America, this narrative explores the whims of religious interpretation, where swimming capabilities and aquatic lifestyles became theologically significant. Hear about hungry missionaries relieving their fasting woes with creative solutions sanctioned by the Vatican, and laugh along as Dan and Renee uncover the peculiar logic of the holy loopholes.