November 9th Essay: Eat This, Not That!
We’re just weeks away from Thanksgiving—and you practically can smell the stuffing already! This beloved American holiday is a joyful pause, a moment when everyone, regardless of background or belief, gathers around the table to celebrate gratitude. No gifts, no pressure—just food, family, and the cozy traditions we cherish: turkey trots, football games, and lending a hand at food banks. It’s simple, heartfelt, and for many, the perfect holiday. And let’s be honest—every family has that one dish that must be on the table. For me? It’s homemade cranberry sauce, tart and glistening, the crown jewel of the feast.
New York City’s vibrant diversity includes global cuisines rooted in tradition. For my family, Christmas Eve means celebrating Polish Wigilia—a meatless meal that begins when the youngest child spots the First Star, a challenge amid the city’s glow. The table is dressed only in white (no red and green), with hay and a whole Opłatek wafer at the center, symbolizing Jesus in the manger. Dishes like Żurek and pierogi are served in odd-numbered courses, all white in color. We set an extra place and light a candle to welcome the Holy Family or any stranger in need. Before eating, we break and share Opłatek, offering blessings, gratitude, and love to one another.
It was only when I went to college that I learned many Americans actually eat MEAT Christmas Eve. I was shocked and a little horrified! Our Easter traditions are less in-depth, but I would never even think of eating food that is not blessed on Easter Saturday. I am third generation and not even 100% Polish.
So, as I met Jewish and Muslim friends and learned they, too, had dietary traditions, I somehow found it comforting and familiar. Kosher in Judaism and halal in Islam are the two most recognized religious dietary systems and ones New Yorkers can see daily in everything from restaurants to food carts. While we may not know the differences (yet), it is fair to say that both express a deep respect for God and the injunctions passed down in the Torah and Quran. The word kosher derives from the Hebrew word kasher, meaning “fit” or “proper” according to the kashrut laws. Halal in Arabic means “permissible” according to Islamic sharia law.
Both Judaism and Islam intertwine food with faith, setting clear guidelines on what’s permissible and how holidays are observed. Passover, one of the oldest food-focused celebrations, is detailed in the Bible and marked by a family meal—much like Thanksgiving. Islamic traditions also center around food and ritual. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, then gather each evening for Iftar—a meal that begins with prayer and shared dishes. It’s a practice our parish recognizes and honors alongside our Muslim neighbors.
Compared to their Eastern counterparts, Catholic Christians take a more relaxed approach to food restrictions and fasting—especially during Lent. But step into the world of the Eastern churches—Armenian, Orthodox, Coptic—and you’ll find a rich tapestry of fasting traditions woven into the calendar. These communities observe numerous fast days and intricate dietary rules, turning spiritual discipline into a deeply embodied ritual that shapes daily life and communal rhythm.
Ready to feast on knowledge just in time for the holidays? Join the Ignatian Interfaith Ministry on Monday, November 17th for “Eat This, Not That!”—a lively, eye-opening evening exploring the fascinating similarities and differences between kosher and halal traditions. Whether you’re hosting, attending, or simply curious, this is your chance to deepen your understanding and become a more thoughtful, inclusive neighbor. Doors open at 6:30 PM, the conversation kicks off at 7 and trust us—you won’t want to miss it. RSVP now at [email protected] and come hungry for insight!
— Simone Vinocour, Chair, Ignatian Interfaith Ministry