His Eminence Metropolitan Andrei of Cluj has urged the faithful to live the Dormition Fast not merely as a dietary restriction, but as a time for strengthening prayer, reconciling with God, and purifying the soul.
“Let us fast not only from food, but also from evil,” the hierarch said, emphasising that true fasting combines bodily discipline with inner purification.
Childhood Devotion
Metropolitan Andrei highlighted the spiritual importance of the Dormition Fast, especially for those who care about their inner life, and recalled the spirit of devotion and prayer that traditionally characterises this time – sentiments he remembers vividly from childhood.
“We remember, even from childhood, that during this period, spiritual concerns were of special importance. And I would say they still are – even though the world moves forward, even though we live in times of secularisation, many people remain anchored in the authentic living of faith,” he noted.
A Spiritual Exercise
Beyond food abstinence, the Metropolitan emphasised that fasting is primarily a spiritual exercise. “The dietary rules are not the most important part – what truly matters is the spiritual dimension of fasting,” he said, encouraging the faithful to unite bodily restraint with prayer, confession, and reconciliation with others.
During this period, the Paraklesis to the Mother of God is chanted nightly in churches, a service described by the hierarch as a great source of inner strength.
“Those concerned with their salvation confess, make peace with God and with their neighbour,” he added. “As is often said – even though the expression comes from Great Lent – we fast from food, but we must also fast from malice. This is a timeless call valid in all fasting seasons.”
Pilgrimage to Nicula
The Dormition Fast culminates with one of the most beloved feasts in the Orthodox calendar. For many believers in Transylvania, this moment is closely connected with the annual pilgrimage to Nicula Monastery, home to a miracle-working icon of the Mother of God.
Tens of thousands of pilgrims gather there each year, seeking spiritual renewal and grace at the close of this sacred season.
Photo: Cluj Metropolis
