Orthodox Christians around the world began observing Great Lent on March 3, 2025, marking the start of the most significant period of fasting leading up to Easter, which falls on April 20 this year. This duration includes strict dietary restrictions aimed at purifying both the body and soul, reflecting on the importance of Lent as established by church traditions.
The rules for Lent are intended to prepare followers for the celebration of the Resurrection of Christ. According to RIA Novosti, this season asks adherents not only to refrain from certain foods but also to engage deeply with their faith through prayer, reflection, and acts of forgiveness.
Historically, the timeline for Great Lent is determined by the date of Easter, which varies annually. This year, the fasting period will last for 47 days, concluding just before the joyous occasion of Easter Sunday. The first week of Lent, particularly important within the Orthodox tradition, involves rigorous guidelines, including complete fasting on the first day known as Pure Monday.
During this first week, the Orthodox Church advises followers to adhere closely to dietary rules. On Pure Monday, congregants are encouraged to abstain from all food, starting off their Lent with intense dedication. The week continues with allowances for dry foods, permitting the consumption of raw fruits, vegetables, nuts, and cold drinks. Specific dishes are encouraged, and exceptions are made on certain days.
During the Strastnaya Sedmitsa (Holy Week), similar rules apply, with only dried foods allowed throughout. On Good Friday, individuals are forbidden from eating until the veneration of the altar takes place during the evening service. These stringent practices echo the feelings of somber reflection, leading to the resurrection celebration.
By the weekend, more food options become available. Cooked or stewed vegetables, along with salads dressed with vegetable oil, are permitted. It is during this time where the Church calls upon its members to engage with their faith by abstaining from indulgences—especially meat and dairy.
The guidelines provided during Lent specify the following restrictions:
- Meat, poultry, and all meat products including sausages are strictly prohibited.
- Dairy products, including milk, butter, and cheese, must be avoided.
- Eggs and any products containing eggs are also banned.
- Creamy sauces and alcoholic drinks, aside from wine on select days, are not allowed.
- Pastries and sweetened goods containing butter or eggs are off the menu.
Conversely, the following foods are allowed:
- Various vegetables and fruits, including mushrooms.
- Legumes such as beans, lentils, and chickpeas.
- All types of grains and cereals.
- Nuts and dried fruits are welcomed additions.
- Breads made without eggs or butter, as well as greens and salads.
- Honey is permitted.
- Vegetable oil can be used on designated days.
Religious authorities, such as monk Theodore, inform parishioners about exemptions, emphasizing the Church does not absolve anyone from Lent observance but allows for exceptions for specific groups. Those who are ill, nursing mothers, and workers engaged in labor-intensive jobs may receive allowances to consume dairy or fish as needed. Complete exemption is not offered, especially concerning meat consumption, which remains obligatory even for those facing individual challenges.
Parental guidance encourages families participating together; children under the age of seven are not mandated to fast, but their well-being should be monitored, especially if parents opt to limit their diets.
Despite the restrictions, there are still encouraging options available to bring variety and flavor to meals throughout the fasting period. Here are several suggestions to enliven your menu during the first week:
- Vegetable Ratatouille: Sauté eggplant, zucchini, peppers, tomatoes, and onion with garlic and herbs.
- Bean and Fresh Vegetable Salad: Combine fresh cucumbers, radishes, and cooked beans with olive oil and lemon dressing.
- Mushroom Soup: A hearty option made from vegetable broth with added carrots, potatoes, and spices.
- Vegetable Buckwheat: Cook buckwheat and mix with sautéed carrots and zucchini.
- Baked Vegetables: Roast potatoes, carrots, and beets, seasoned simply with olive oil and herbs.
- Fruit with Honey and Nuts: Serve fresh fruits drizzled with honey and sprinkle nuts for added crunch.
- Lens Soup Salad: A mix of cooked lentils with vegetables like avocado and tomatoes.
Great Lent fosters not just dietary discipline but invites followers to engage spiritually through community and personal reflection. Observers are encouraged to find meaning and connection through this ritual, enhancing both their personal faith journeys and their communion with others.
Overall, Lent serves as both remedy and renewal for practitioners, allowing them to step forward spiritually as they await the joy of Easter.