“With a kind and forgiving heart that does not hold on to resentment, we can begin Great Lent—a journey alongside our Savior Jesus Christ on the path of His Passion,” explains Metropolitan Serafim of Germany, Central, and Northern Europe in his pastoral letter at the start of Great Lent 2025.
In his Lenten pastoral letter, His Eminence Metropolitan Serafim describes the process of man’s deification through union with Christ, renunciation of sin, and a life lived in virtue and obedience.
“Christian life means an ever-deepening union with Christ until we can say, along with the Apostle Paul, ‘I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me’ (Galatians 2:20).”
Spiritual Weapons
Highlighting the spiritual struggle of Lent, the Romanian Orthodox Metropolitan of Germany, Central, and Northern Europe points to three essential “weapons” of the Christian life: prayer, fasting, and almsgiving.
“Great Lent is a time of repentance through increased prayer—at church, at home, on the road, at work, at all times and in all places—fulfilling the exhortation of Saint Paul: ‘Pray without ceasing’ (1 Thessalonians 5:17).”
“Let us therefore pray with joy and faith, knowing that through prayer we unite with Christ in our hearts and receive His help for all our beneficial petitions. Let us not forget the reading of the Psalter, especially now, during fasting season.”
Physical Benefits of Fasting
His Eminence also emphasized the physical benefits of fasting, alongside its spiritual significance.
“Fasting, or a vegan diet—more and more recommended by modern medicine—is a great blessing for the health of both body and soul. According to our strength, let us strive to fast with joy throughout this holy season. Likewise, let us make every effort to show generosity to those in need, especially to large families in Romania.”
“I pray to our Savior Jesus Christ to give you strength to forgive all, to increase your love for prayer and mercy toward the poor, and to grant you a blessed fast!” the metropolitan concluded.
Photo: Basilica.ro
