Journey through Lent
The services of Great Lent are characterized by an atmosphere of a penitential character. In most Orthodox Churches, 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 is decorated in somber colors, usually purple. The daily hymns are also of an intercessory character, entreating God through His saints to have mercy on us sinners. Although most Orthodox are familiar with some of the services of Holy Week, few know the entire collection of services that make up the entire Lenten season. Every Orthodox Christian should take full advantage of the beauty offered by the Orthodox Church to properly and fully prepare themselves for the greatest event of Christianity – the resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, which is why I want to take time to review the entire schedule of services…