From Fr. Angelo
While most Orthodox are familiar with some of the services of Lent and Holy Week, few know the entire collection of services that make up the entire Lenten season and this is especially important for those who have recently joined our church through Chrismation. The joyous event of Christ’s resurrection can only be fully appreciated through the journey of Lent. The Lenten journey is vital to fully prepare for the single greatest event of our Christian faith, the resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. For this reason, I want to take the time to provide this overview of the entire schedule of services.
OVERVIEW
The services of Great Lent are characterized by an atmosphere of a penitential character evident through noticeable differences. The royal gates to the altar area remain closed to remind us of Man’s separation through sin from the Kingdom of God. The church vesting is of a somber color, usually purple and the 7-day candles are changed to purple. The daily hymns reflect this somber tone with a repentant and intercessory character, entreating God through His saints to have mercy on us sinners…