HIS EMINENCE METROPOLITAN NICOLAE
The Romanian Orthodox Metropolia of the Americas
Liaison to IOCC from the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States
Once again, we begin our journey through Great Lent, offering ourselves in repentance to our all-good and all-loving Creator. The Fast is a chance to turn inward, and the Church, in her wisdom, provides us with the tools and instruction we need to draw nearer to Christ as we prepare for the glorious night of His Resurrection.
If we take these disciplines to heart, if we give greater attention to our fasting, prayer, and almsgiving, we not only personally experience the warmth of His consolation, but we acquire the ability to see His Light reflected in those around us. For as we struggle toward Christ, we struggle toward our fellow man. And when we stumble, as we often do, we rise again, knowing we have in the heavens “a great cloud of witnesses” (Hebrews 12:1) as our support.
In the coming weeks, you will find reflections from priests across the country designed to inspire and encourage you on your Lenten journey. For each Sunday of the Fast, these Fathers offer spiritual insight and commentary from the wealth of their own experience.
It is my great joy to begin this voyage alongside you, and I offer my blessings as we make our way toward that great Paschal mystery. May this be for you a season of peace, holiness, and repentance. And may we all come together in unison to shout on that tremendous night — Christ is Risen!
