how come Catholics aren't supposed to eat meat on fridays during Lent?

It is supposed to be a small sacrifice to remind one of the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus the Christ went through for their sins. Peace.

The teaching is for the entire year, except during compact weeks which occur after the great feasts (the week after Christmas, Epiphany and Easter are all compact weeks in which one may eat meat on Friday). The rule is still in place. It commemorates the day of Jesus' death. Catholics who are under 14, over 65, pregnant or endure hard labour are exempt from this rule.

The rule used to include Wednesdays as well....I know a Buddhist monk who in particular, says the "best" energy is at 3pm on Wednesday.

Mortification of the flesh. Dates back to the Middle Ages.

even before I gave up being a catholic I ate meat regardless of what the church said.

See this is just another example of how religion tries to control people with what and when they can eat; what's next how and what type of clothing they can wear?

It's a Middle Ages-based tradition that has nothing to do with the teachings or ministry of Jesus Christ.

Just like most of Roman Catholicism in general.

Because Christ taught about the value of fasting. Because the apostles always prayed and fasted while preparing for a special event.

Samian almost had my (unasked for) choice as best answer - then he blew it with a snide remark.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lent#Fasting_and_abst...

Jim, http://www.bible-reviews.com/

Just some ridiculous tradition.

Because the Bible says so... wait, no it doesn't.