Orthodox Lent

As Orthodox Christians we entered upon lent on Monday February 15 (New Calendar).  However lent truly begins with forgiveness Sunday (which also celebrates the casting out from Paradise of Adam and Eve) where we go around to each person at church and ask forgiveness so we can begin our Lenten journey at peace with everyone.  For more information about Orthodox lent check out www.monachos.net/content/lent  This past Sunday we celebrated the third Sunday of lent the Adoration of the Precious Cross.  This is when lent takes on a new flavor where while still focused on repentance we also begin to look towards the Cross and Resurrection.  It is given at this time to help lift our spirits after 3 weeks of fasting and to prepare us for continuing on our journey towards Pascha and the Resurrection of Christ.  For all those who make this journey may the Lord have mercy upon us all.