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Orthodox Christians begin Lent on Monday, March 15, RIA Novosti reports. It is considered the longest and strictest. This church custom was established in memory of the 40-day fast of Jesus Christ, which he spent in the wilderness before going out to preach.
Great Lent consists of Holy Lent and ends with Holy Week. Formally, it is not included in Lent, but food restrictions during this period are the most severe.
During Great Lent, believers refuse meat and dairy products, eggs, and fish. But the church reminds that the elderly, children and pregnant women can make indulgences.
On the evening of March 15, the head of the Russian Orthodox Church will lead a service at the Cathedral of Christ the Savior. Patriarch Kirill will begin to read the canon of Andrew of Crete. This canon is read in churches in parts during the first four days of fasting and again in full on Wednesday in the fifth week of fasting.
The Primate of the Russian Church calls Great Lent a period intended for cleansing from sins and for repentance. But, in his opinion, restrictions on food, drink, entertainment are only ways to change the state of our soul.
The fast will end with the celebration of Christ's Resurrection, or Easter. This year it is celebrated on May 2.
Russkiy Mir
