Orthodox Easter Fasting Calendar 2023
2023 Orthodox Wall Calendar St. Innocent Press from www.stinnocentpress.comIntroduction Easter is one of the most important religious holidays in the Christian calendar. It is a time for reflection, repentance, and spiritual renewal. The Orthodox Church follows a strict fasting calendar in the lead-up to Easter, which is known as Lent. In this article, we will take a closer look at the Orthodox Easter Fasting Calendar for 2023. The Meaning of Lent Lent is a period of 40 days leading up to Easter, during which Orthodox Christians fast and abstain from certain foods and activities. The purpose of Lent is to prepare believers for the celebration of Easter by focusing on prayer, repentance, and self-discipline. It is a time for spiritual renewal and growth. The Orthodox Easter Fasting Calendar 2023 The Orthodox Easter Fasting Calendar for 2023 begins on March 6th and ends on April 21st. During this period, believers are expected to abstain from meat, dairy products, and eggs, as well as oil and wine on certain days. The fasting period is broken on Easter Sunday, with a feast that includes traditional foods such as lamb, eggs, and cheese. Week 1: March 6th - March 12th During the first week of Lent, believers are expected to fast from meat, dairy, and eggs. Oil and wine are allowed on weekends. Week 2: March 13th - March 19th During the second week of Lent, the fasting rules are the same as the first week. Week 3: March 20th - March 26th During the third week of Lent, believers are expected to fast from meat, dairy, and eggs. Oil and wine are allowed on weekends. Week 4: March 27th - April 2nd During the fourth week of Lent, the fasting rules are the same as the third week. Week 5: April 3rd - April 9th During the fifth week of Lent, believers are expected to fast from meat, dairy, and eggs. Oil and wine are allowed on weekends. Week 6: April 10th - April 16th During the sixth week of Lent, the fasting rules are the same as the fifth week. Holy Week The week leading up to Easter is known as Holy Week. During this time, believers attend church services and participate in special rituals and traditions. On Holy Thursday, the Last Supper is commemorated with a service known as the Service of the Twelve Gospels. On Good Friday, the death of Jesus is remembered with a somber service called the Service of the Royal Hours. On Holy Saturday, the Resurrection is celebrated with the Service of the Resurrection. Easter Sunday Easter Sunday marks the end of the fasting period and the beginning of a joyful celebration. Believers attend church services and participate in Easter egg hunts and other traditional activities. The feast that follows the service includes traditional foods such as lamb, eggs, and cheese. Conclusion The Orthodox Easter Fasting Calendar for 2023 is an important period of spiritual renewal and growth for believers. By following the strict fasting rules and participating in the rituals and traditions of Holy Week, believers prepare themselves for the joyous celebration of Easter Sunday. ...