"And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces so that others may see their fasting. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you."
Matthew 6:16-18
The Syriac Orthodox Church observes a 50-day Lenten season known as "the Great Lent" to prepare for the advent of Easter. This season is marked by fasting, prayer, repentance, and almsgiving. Its objective is to assist the faithful in preparing their hearts and minds to celebrate Jesus Christ's resurrection. The season begins on the Sunday evening of the wedding of Cana and lasts for 40 days, after which the passion week culminates in Easter.
The number 40 holds prime importance in the Bible, representing a trial, testing, and preparation period. For instance, the city of Nineveh had 40 days to repent before its destruction. Elijah spent 40 days and nights traveling to Mount Horeb to receive God's commandments, and Moses spent 40 days and nights on Mount Sinai to receive the Ten Commandments. The Israelites wandered in the desert for 40 years before reaching the Promised Land, and Jesus fasted for 40 days in the wilderness. In the context of Lent, the number 40 symbolizes a period of self-denial, spiritual discipline, and preparation for renewal.
Orthodox Church fathers have extensively written about the importance of Lent as a season of spiritual growth and refreshment. St. John Chrysostom viewed Lent as a time to "clear the soul, rendering it more luminous, purify it of all defilement, fill it with divine brightness, and prepare it for the advent of the Holy Spirit." St. Basil the Great emphasised the value of fasting during Lent, noting that it can "give wings to our prayers" and "enrich our spirit with virtues." He also stressed that fasting should be viewed as a means of withdrawing from worldly distractions and focusing on our spiritual life rather than as a hardship.
St. Gregory of Nyssa saw Lent as a time to "take off the old self and put on the new," emphasizing the importance of repentance and the need to embrace the life of Christ. These Church fathers stressed the need for a positive and appreciative approach to Lent, focusing on the spiritual benefits of fasting and prayer and the opportunity to draw closer to God and experience His love and grace.
To observe Lent, Syriac Orthodox Christians traditionally engage in the following activities: fasting, which involves abstaining from certain food or all meals for a specific period; prayer, which includes participating in daily services, individual prayer, and reading spiritual texts; repentance, which involves confessing sins and seeking forgiveness; and almsgiving, which entails donating money, food, or other resources to those in need. These activities foster spiritual growth, self-reflection, and compassion for others within the Syriac Orthodox Christian community during the forty days leading up to Easter.
Modern ways of observing Lent have emerged in addition to traditional practices utilizing technology in various ways. We can use apps or online resources for daily devotionals, attend virtual Lenten retreats, or participate in online faith community meetings to enhance spiritual growth. Another way to observe Lent in the modern context is to focus on environmental concerns, such as reducing consumption, waste, or carbon footprint, to honour God's creation. Finally, taking a break from social media, also known as a "social media fast," is a way to use free time for spiritual reflection and spiritual growth. These modern practices, while different from traditional ones, can offer new ways for individuals to engage in faith activities during the Lenten season.
Sunday school children can observe Lent by making adaptations to suit their age and context, and there are various ways in which they can participate. They can learn about the significance of Lent and its practices through engaging in activities and reading stories that are age-appropriate and accessible. Additionally, participating in simplified fasting, such as abstaining from certain food items (Chocolates, Candies) or habits, can be a way for children to develop self-discipline and imbibe the spirit of the season. Finally, engaging in acts of kindness and charity, such as donating toys or clothes to those in need, can help children develop a sense of empathy and compassion for others. By adopting such practices, Sunday school children can participate in this important tradition in meaningful and relevant ways.
In conclusion, as we approach the season of the Great Lent, let us all remember the significance of this holy period in the Christian faith. The Great Lent is a time for deep introspection, spiritual reflection, and repentance, and it is an opportunity to draw closer to God and renew our faith as we seek forgiveness for our sins and strive to live a more righteous life.
Therefore, we encourage all members to observe this season with complete dedication and prayer, fasting, meditation, and engaging in acts of charity and kindness toward others. Let us use this season to grow in our faith, deepen our relationship with God, and cultivate a spirit of humility, love, and compassion toward others.
May this Lenten season be a time of great spiritual renewal for all of us, and may we emerge from it with a deeper understanding of our faith and a more substantial commitment to living a life of service to God and others.
During this period of Lent, we will experience a glorious spiritual renewal. May we gain a deeper understanding of our faith and attain a more resolute determination to dedicate our lives to serving God.
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