13th Nov. THE START OF THE LENT FOR CHRISTMAS

ST. JOHN CHRYSOSTOM (THE GOLDEN MOUTH) (+ 14TH SEPT,407) IS REMEMBERED ON 13th OF NOVEMBER FOR HIS WISDOM, HIS ASCETICISM AND THE POWER OF HIS WORDS.

"DO YOU FAST? Give me proof of it by your works. If you see a poor man, take pity on him. If you see a friend being honoured, do not envy him. Do not let only your mouth fast, but also the eye and the ear and the feet and the hands and the members of our bodies. Let the hands fast, by being free of avarice.  Let the feet fast, by ceasing to run after sin. Let the eyes fast, by disciplining them not to glare at that which is sinful. Let the ear fast, by not listening to evil talk and gossip. Let the mouth fast from foul words and unjust criticism. For what good is it if we abstain from birds and fishes, but bite and devour our brothers? May He who came to the world to save sinners strengthen us to complete the fast with humility, have mercy on us and save us".

"The fast of Lent has no advantage to us unless it brings about our spiritual renewal. It is necessary while fasting to change our whole life and practice virtue. Turning away from all wickedness means keeping our tongue in check, restraining our anger, avoiding all gossip, lying and swearing. To abstain from things - herein is the true value of the fast.  Accept the fast as an experienced educator by whom the Church teaches us piety" (From the writings of St. John Chrysostom)

• < Prev
• Next >