The Orthodox faithful prepare for Great Lent, which begins on March 3, 2025, and concludes on April 19, 2025, leading up to the celebration of Passover. Traditionally, this period is seen as one of deep reflection and preparation for Easter, mirroring the forty days Jesus spent fasting in the wilderness. The rules around this Lent are strict, yet many view participation as voluntary and adaptable based on personal faith and circumstances.
Traditionally, Great Lent is marked by specific dietary restrictions, primarily the exclusion of animal products and, for some, even complete abstinence from all food and drink, especially during certain holy days. These practices are accompanied by heightened religious observance through prayer and participation in church services. The specifics of these rules can vary based on individual circumstances, which means they might not apply uniformly to everyone. For example, children under the age of 14, pregnant women, and nursing mothers often receive exemptions from the stricter fasting rules.
A discussion with Father Artemiy Ponomaryov from the Knyaz Vladimirskiy Church highlights the spirit behind these practices: "The meaning of Great Lent lies in the commitment to abstain—to refrain from food, entertainment, and distractions, allowing one to focus on prayer and ascetic practices." This discipline of fasting serves as both physical and mental purification for believers as they prepare for the resurrection of Christ.
The question arises: why does the Church also celebrate Maslenitsa, often regarded as a pagan feast? Father Ponomaryov argues, "Maslenitsa offers individuals the chance to reconcile with their friends and family before Lent. It’s a period for sharing meals, symbolizing community before entering the solemnity of fasting." Despite its association with pre-Lenten feasting, the practice has Christian roots and has evolved over time to fit within modern beliefs and cultural practices.
Those participating are encouraged to transition healthily from the indulgence of Maslenitsa to the rigor of fasting. Proper planning is emphasized, including how to approach leftovers from feasting. "A devout person will prepare just enough to tide them over until Lent, possibly freezing some for later use," explains Father Ponomaryov.
While many wonder about the permissibility of celebrating personal events, like birthdays during Great Lent, Father Ponomaryov advises, "For someone practicing their faith, celebrating during this period could dilute their commitment to fasting, and they might prefer to reschedule their celebrations outside of Lent." The line drawn between social obligations and religious observance can be delicate, with many believers seeking to balance their faith with their everyday lives.
During Lent, those who stray from the fasting rules can worry about divine judgment. "Not observing the fast shouldn’t be seen merely as sin, but as evidence of one stepping back from ascetic perfection," notes Father Ponomaryov. Much like physical fitness, spirituality requires regular practice and commitment, even when faced with setbacks.
The role of children and sports during Lent also brings up questions often posed by parents and athletes alike. According to the guidance of clergy, limits on eating can be more lenient for children and professional athletes, allowing them to maintain their health without neglecting their faith. Parents are encouraged to introduce their children gently to fasting principles, tailoring them to their child's age and capability.
Sporting activities can continue during Lent as long as participants are sensitive to their physical conditions and motivations. "If someone engages in sports for health, there’s no issue maintaining activity during the Fast, but if it's for vanity, one should reconsider their priorities," advises Father Ponomaryov.
Orthodox teachings suggest restricting hunting and fishing during this time as it contrasts with the spirit of restraint. Meanwhile, church attendance continues to be encouraged, with believers urged to attend services, partake of Communion, and engage with Scripture regularly. The focus shifts toward introspection and community harmony.
Great Lent comprises two main segments: the period leading to Holy Week, representing forty days of fasting modeled after Christ, and the intense final week known as Holy Week, which culminates on Easter Sunday. Each week features unique themes and liturgical practices, deepening the observance.
The traditions and instructions around fasting also have historical roots, dating back to the early church fathers. Tertullian and others referenced fasting conventions as early as the second century, describing practices of total abstention for certain periods. These early Christian approaches laid the groundwork for the contemporary observances and rules established through church traditions over centuries.
Health professionals have noted the physical benefits of fasting, asserting it can promote healthful changes within the body, improving insulin sensitivity and aiding the digestive system. Accordingly, believers are instructed to consume plant-based foods like grains and vegetables throughout Lent, contributing to both physical health and the fulfillment of their religious duties.
A comprehensive view of Lent reveals its dual nature—spiritual and physical—encouraging believers to cultivate patience, humility, and mercy. Whether one observes strictly or allows for flexibility depends on personal interpretation and circumstances, informed by prayer and individual consultation with religious leaders.
To conclude, Great Lent is not merely about abstaining from specific foods but signifies a broader moral and ethical engagement from within. The essence of the observance encourages individuals to grow closer to God, promoting inner peace, love for others, and genuine joy as they anticipate the celebration of the resurrection.