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Thanks to Inari Thiel, who manages her files better than I manage mine, I may now post this important liturgical note. The carefully researched material on the pancake restaurant contingency first appeared on the ANGLICAN list. The author, Scott Knitter, a fine Anglican although a Michigander, places the material before the reader assuming a knowledge of the basic Pancake Procession. I am mindful that there are those on this list without that background, hence a few words may not be amiss.
There are those who argue that the Pancake Procession must take place before, and only before, the feast itself. The liturgical argument here is that just as the solemn procession comes before the sacred meal in Eucharist, so it should on Shrove Tuesday. There is also the pragmatic argument that no one is in any shape to process after consuming great quantities of pancakes, butter and syrup. Others argue, just a vehemently, that the procession must take place after, and only after the feast. The arguments here are a bit difficult to follow, and one suspects that it really comes down to a fear that the Pancakes will get cold if carried about in procession rather than plunked right on the table for immediate consumption.
We do not wish to become embroiled in debate over this sensitive issue. Suffice it to say that all known liturgical materials (from the Roman "Sacramentary" to the "Book of How Things 'Sposed To Be" of the Agabeg Occult Church of the Overcoming of the Holy Spirit) agree on the order of the procession, the materials to be carried, and by whom, and the route of the procession.
A thurifer leads the procession. Two bacon strips are draped over the thurible. At the beginning of the procession, the celebrant places the two bacon strips over the thurible saying, "Blessed is He in whose humour you are to be burnt."
Following the thurifer is the forkifer bearing the giant likeness of a fork, and flanked by two lightbearers.
Following the forkifer and lightbearers (logic would dictate that they be called "lucifers") are the various ranks of lay ministers, up to but not including the sub-deacon. The verger follows the forkifer and lucifers, but slightly to the side so as to be on the lookout for pancake establishments (see Knitter's notes below). The two senior acolytes are the last in the procession of lay ministers and carry the pancakes upon a platter.
The celebrant, flanked by the deacon and sub-deacon, carries the pitcher, which should be of sufficient size and decoration as befits the dignity of the occasion.
The procession walks the precincts of the parish.
Gregory Holmes Singleton, R.O.C.
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