Lent Begins

First things first. A number of people have asked me about the fast, what it's all about, what is the rule, etc. The fabulous and amazing Esteban has graciously posted a collection of useful information on the subject. He has also provided some good resources for lectionary and other spiritual reading, as well as a brief explanation of how March 10 - April 27 can possibly amount to forty days, all rather helpful for this newbie.

In addition to all this helpful material, Esteban also gives an introduction to the wonder that is Forgiveness Vespers.

Great Lent is officially inaugurated with the celebration of Forgiveness Vespers on the evening of Sunday, at the end of which all present ask forgiveness from one another as Paschal hymns are sung. The day that follows, and by extension the entire Fast, is "clean" not only because we have rid our homes of meat and other animal products that are not eaten during the Fast, but also (and indeed chiefly) because we have set out on the journey to Lord's Pascha having sought forgiveness of those closest to us, who are therefore also those we offend the most (and with the least remorse!).

This was an amazing experience. It's not just that "all present ask forgiveness from one another;" it's how this is done.

It began with the priest. A line formed in front of him, beginning with the deacon. The priest made a prostration while asking forgiveness of the deacon, then the deacon did the same in response. The deacon then stood next to the priest as the sub-deacon (I kid you not, there is someone with that title) stepped forward. When the priest and sub-deacon had mutually asked and given forgiveness, the sub-deacon proceeded to the deacon, and the process was repeated. Therefore, everyone in the church, from age 7 to 70ish ended up standing in a double line around the perimeter of the room making prostrations, asking, and granting forgiveness.

When I first joined the line, I thought the whole thing looked a little bizarre, and I guess it probably did. But imagine being a participant. This is an exercise that leaves little room for pride. It was seriously intense. There were tears and hugs and such at various moments around the room. As you might imagine, part of the intensity was physical. (My leg muscles are still feeling it.)

Bizarre? Maybe. Intense? Oh yeah. Worth it? Absolutely. There is so much happening, I'm sure I haven't thought of all the layers of meaning that this tradition covers. What I do know is that this is yet another reason I am so very glad to be part of the Orthodox Church.