IT IS DANGEROUS TO FAST ONLY THE FIRST AND LAST WEEK OF GREAT LENT
Through the interpretation of the Gospel parable of the publican and the pharisee, the priest of the Cathedral Church in Bar called on the faithful people to prepare for abstinence in their hearts, not just in outward forms.
TL;DR
- Selective fasting, such as observing only the first and last weeks of Lent, is spiritually dangerous and leads to 'drowning'.
- Faith requires consistency and commitment from beginning to end, not just observing parts that suit one's mood.
- The analogy of a bridge with missing supports illustrates that incomplete spiritual effort prevents reaching the destination.
- Orthodox fasting is a complete whole, requiring adherence to church order and not personal preference.
- Canonically, breaking the fast is strictly punished, emphasizing its importance.
- Half-measures in spiritual life lead to wasted energy rather than character building.
- Fasting is a school of obedience, humility, and perseverance, not a diet or seasonal custom.