Great Lent, a significant fasting season within Eastern Christianity, marks a period of spiritual introspection and preparation for Pascha (Easter), the most celebrated feast in the Christian calendar. Originating alongside Western Christianity’s Lent, Great Lent possesses unique features and dates, deeply rooted in Byzantine tradition.
The Origins and Purpose of Great Lent
Eastern Orthodoxy’s Great Lent traces its roots to early Christian practices, aligning with Western Lent in purpose but differing in observance. The focus lies in preparing believers for Pascha, facilitating spiritual growth and renewal. Emphasizing prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, Great Lent aims to elevate the believer’s character, aligning life with Gospel virtues.
The period commences on Clean Monday, seven weeks prior to Pascha, excluding Ash Wednesday observance. This 40-day journey includes Sundays and concludes on the Friday of the Sixth Week, leading into Holy Week. The distinct Eastern calculation of Easter often results in a later Pascha compared to the West.
Fasting, a central aspect, involves abstaining from meat, fish, dairy, and in some traditions, oil and wine, with exceptions on specific feast days. The practice is not an end in itself but a means to spiritual purification and communion with God. Great Lent is not exclusive to monastics but invites all believers to partake in its ascetic practices.
Observance and Liturgical Life
Great Lent transforms the liturgical life of the Church. The Lenten Triodion, a liturgical text, replaces parts of regular services, intensifying towards Holy Week. Weekday Divine Liturgies give way to the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts, a reflective, penitential service. Canonical Hours extend, incorporating Lenten hymns and prayers.
The Sundays of Great Lent, each with unique commemorations, highlight themes from biblical parables and saintly figures, fostering a deepened understanding of Christian virtues. These include the Sundays of Orthodoxy, St. Gregory Palamas, the Holy Cross, St. John Climacus, and St. Mary of Egypt.
The Liturgical Structure and Practices of Great Lent
Great Lent’s liturgical life is characterized by its unique structure and practices, central to Eastern Orthodox spirituality. The period is marked by increased prayer, fasting, and reflection, leading the faithful on a journey of inner transformation.
Liturgical Changes and the Role of the Triodion
The Triodion, a key liturgical book, comes into use, bringing with it a range of special services and hymns. It gradually replaces parts of regular services, intensifying as Lent progresses. Notably, the Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom, typically celebrated on weekdays, is replaced by the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts. This service, reflective and somber, allows for the reception of Holy Communion during the week, a practice otherwise reserved for Sundays.
Weekdays and Weekends in Great Lent
On weekdays, Great Lent fosters an atmosphere of introspection and penitence. The liturgical readings and hymns during this time focus on themes of repentance, humility, and spiritual renewal. In contrast, Saturdays and Sundays during Lent, while still observant of the fast, offer a liturgical respite, celebrating the resurrection and hope found in Christ.
Significance of Prayer and Fasting
Prayer and fasting are the pillars of the Lenten journey. Prayer intensifies, with the faithful engaging in more frequent private and communal worship. Fasting, observed by abstaining from meat, dairy, and in some traditions, oil and wine, serves as a physical expression of spiritual discipline and focus. This combination of prayer and fasting aims to cleanse both body and spirit, drawing believers closer to the divine.
Key Themes and Spiritual Emphasis of Great Lent
The spiritual journey of Great Lent is enriched by its themes and emphases, resonating deeply within the believer’s heart and mind. These elements are not merely ritualistic but are designed to lead to genuine transformation and renewal.
Themes of Repentance and Redemption
Repentance is a central theme, with the faithful encouraged to reflect on their lives, confess their sins, and commit to a path of spiritual growth. This period is not only about self-denial but also about reorienting one’s life towards God and His commandments.
Role of Almsgiving and Charity
Almsgiving complements prayer and fasting, emphasizing the importance of love and charity. It reflects the belief that spiritual growth is inseparable from acts of kindness and generosity towards others, especially those in need.
Focus on Biblical and Patristic Teachings
Great Lent also places a strong emphasis on the teachings of the Bible and the Church Fathers. The scripture readings during this period are carefully selected to provide guidance and inspiration for the Lenten journey. They include passages from the Old and New Testaments that underscore themes of repentance, forgiveness, and divine grace.
Integration of Tradition and Personal Reflection
While deeply rooted in tradition, Great Lent is also a time for personal reflection and spiritual self-assessment. It invites believers to look inward, examining their relationship with God, their adherence to Christian teachings, and their commitment to living a life reflective of their faith.
As Great Lent progresses, it prepares the faithful not only for the celebration of Christ’s Resurrection at Pascha but also for a renewed life in Christ, embodying the virtues and teachings of the Orthodox faith.
The Holy Week and Paschal Transition
As Great Lent culminates, the faithful enter Holy Week, a profound period reflecting on the final days of Christ’s earthly life. This week, separate yet intrinsically linked to Lent, serves as a spiritual bridge to Pascha, the Feast of the Resurrection.
Holy Week: A Journey Through Christ’s Passion
Holy Week begins with Lazarus Saturday and Palm Sunday, commemorating Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem. The mood shifts to a solemn commemoration of the Last Supper on Holy Thursday, leading to the observance of Christ’s Crucifixion on Good Friday. These days are marked by poignant liturgical services, including the reading of the Twelve Gospels and the veneration of the epitaphios, symbolizing Christ’s burial.
Paschal Vigil and the Joy of the Resurrection
The transition to the Resurrection begins on Holy Saturday, a day of watchful anticipation. The Paschal Vigil at midnight marks the climax of Holy Week. The church, initially in darkness, bursts into light, symbolizing Christ’s triumph over death. The faithful exchange the Paschal greeting, “Christ is Risen,” confirming their faith in the Resurrection.
Conclusion
Great Lent and Holy Week in Eastern Orthodoxy embody a profound spiritual journey, culminating in the exultant celebration of Pascha. This period of introspection, fasting, and prayer transforms the believer, fostering a deeper communion with God. Through liturgical rites and personal reflection, the faithful rekindle their spiritual fervor, embracing the redemptive power of Christ’s Resurrection. This season is a testament to the enduring vitality of Orthodox Christian spirituality, echoing the timeless message of hope and renewal.
References
The Orthodox Church,” Timothy Ware, Penguin Books, 1993.
“Great Lent: Journey to Pascha,” Alexander Schmemann, St. Vladimir’s Seminary Press, 1974.
“The Lenten Triodion,” Mother Mary and Kallistos Ware, Faber and Faber, 1978.
“The Festal Menaion,” Mother Mary and Kallistos Ware, St. Tikhon’s Seminary Press, 1998.
“Orthodox Spirituality,” Dumitru Staniloae, St. Tikhon’s Seminary Press, 2003.