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Lent begins: A path to inner repentance and community!
In his Lenten pastoral letter, the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I addresses the deeper meaning of Lent and its alignment with Easter.
Lent begins: A path to inner repentance and community!
The Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, Bartholomew I, emphasized the deeper meaning of Lent in his current Lenten pastoral letter. He emphasizes that fasting does not only consist of abstinence from food, but also includes turning away from sins and lovingly supporting those in need. For Bartholomew I begins with the Pure Monday the Holy and Great Lent of the Orthodox Church, which focuses on the joy and celebration of Easter on April 20th. This period is not only an individual journey of faith, but also a communal experience in which being a Christian is perceived as a personal encounter with Christ.
Lent, also known as the “Easter penitential period,” runs for 40 days until Holy Saturday and begins on Ash Wednesday. This phase serves to prepare for the central Christian festival, Easter, which celebrates the death and resurrection of Jesus. How katholisch.de describes in detail, Lent is not only a time of renunciation, but also a time of inner repentance and conversion. Church rules for Lent vary, but it is generally recommended to limit meat consumption and fast in a careful manner on these days, especially Ash Wednesday and Good Friday.
Fasting rules and liturgical peculiarities
The liturgical colors change to purple as Lent begins, symbolizing the spirit of repentance. In many churches, altarpieces and decorations are coordinated with Lent, and “Hallelujah” is often omitted from services. Fasting is particularly recommended for young people aged 14 and over and for adults up to the age of 60. But as the Catholic Church emphasizes, these rules should not be seen as mere obligations, but rather as supportive aids in spiritual preparation for the upcoming celebration.
When organizing Lent, the focus is on the personal relationship with God. The churches invite you to actively participate in penitential liturgies and charitable works. We are also advised to make a financial contribution to support those in need. These concepts set the framework for a conscious and spiritually enriching preparation for Easter, which is of central importance for many believers.