The Holy Apostle Onesimus
According to liturgical prescriptions, the Divine Liturgy is not celebrated today.
Joel 2:12-26; Joel 3:12-21.
Read Joel 2:12-26
Glory to Jesus Christ! Glory forever!
On this Wednesday of Cheesefare week, we receive a foretaste of what awaits us in the next 7 weeks as we journey towards Pascha. Our readings today are taken from the Old Testament, specifically the prophecy of Joel. During the weekdays of the Great Fast and Holy Week, we will read from numerous other Old Testament books such as Genesis, Exodus, Isaiah, Ezekiel, Proverbs, and Job.
And what exactly does Joel say to us today in this first reading from chapter two of his prophecy? He calls us to repentance and conversion, to fasting and to prayer. He is reminding us that the time of the Great Fast is quickly approaching and that the fast requires of us a complete turning to God through ascetic effort.
Have you thought about about how to sanctify the fast this year? Have you resolved to how you will fast and pray? Take time over the next few days to make a plan and begin your journey on Monday with joy!