Lent - the most prolonged and severe among all the Orthodox fasts. At this time you need not only to abstain from animal food, but also to strive for spiritual cleansing and unceasingly pray.
Lent - a preparation for the celebration of Holy Easter. Fasting during Lent, Orthodox Christians have the ability to achieve union with the Lord and be cleansed from sin by sin. Some people mistakenly believe that these days should just give up banned products. But without prayer and fulfillment of affairs, pleasing to the Lord, the post turned into a vegetarian diet. It is necessary to regularly visit the temple to pray, and try to pay more than usual.
In Lent often need to go to church / istockphoto.com
The meaning of Lent
The main meaning of Lent - is not giving up on meat and dairy products, and spiritual purification. That is why the post should be abandoned not only from animal products, but also from worldly and carnal pleasures.During Lent, the Church recommends how to spend time watching TV and movies. Instead it is better to pray or attend church.
Lent is intended to rethink his life and deeds. During the fast you will be able to understand the meaning of their existence and take the path of truth and virtue. Furthermore, it should get rid of bad thoughts and try to forgive insults.
Morning Prayer during Lent
Orthodox Christians know that every morning should begin with prayers, and during Lent do it necessarily. Through prayer you will be easier to get rid of negativity and protect yourself from any trouble.
"Lord God, be merciful to me a sinner. Cleanse my soul from sins, deliver me from evil thoughts. Defend me from my enemies and from their evil deeds. I believe in the generosity and kindness of thy that thou shalt give to us. Glory to Thee, O God. Amen!"
Evening prayer during Lent
The period of Lent is recommended not only to begin but also to finish the day with prayer. This prayer should be read every night before going to bed:
"Lord God, creator of all life on earth and the King of Heaven, forgive me for the sins committed by me day by word or deed. Even in my dreams I, the servant of (a) God (Ia), do not lose faith in Thee. I believe that will deliver you from my sins, yes cleanse my soul. Every day I'm hoping to protect Thy. Hear my prayer, answer my requests. Amen".
Before going to bed, check with a prayer to his guardian angel:
Before going to sleep you need to say a prayer Guardian Angel / istockphoto.com
"Guardian Angel, my protector and my soul and body. If I have sinned in that day, deliver me from sin. Do not let the Lord God be angry at me. Pray for me, a slave (v) of God (w) (name), before God, ask him for forgiveness of my sins and save me from the evil committed. Amen".
Prayer for forgiveness of sins
During Lent every Orthodox Christian must repent for sins committed without this it is impossible to spiritual cleansing. Should pray daily."I am writing, the servant (a) God (s) of (name), to Thee, Lord, and I ask you to forgive my sins with all my heart. Be merciful to me, the King of Heaven, deliver me from the mental anguish and self-torture. To thee I will return, the Son of God. You died for our sins and was raised you to live forever. I hope to help and I ask Your blessing to me. Forever You are my Savior. Amen!"
The main prayer during Lent
Short Prayer of Saint Ephrem - the main prayer during Lent. It is read on weekdays, at the end of each service. With it, you have the opportunity to repent, to get rid of sins, and to protect themselves and their loved ones from illnesses and detractors.
"Lord God, Lord of my days. Spirit of inactivity, sadness, self-love do not let me. The spirit of common sense and humility, love and patience Give me the servant (e) Your (s) (name). O Lord my God, punish me for my sins, but do not punish them for my neighbor. Amen!"
You will also be useful to learn about the basic rules of Lent 2019.
