EASTER FAST BEGINS TOMORROW! Here's what those who must eat meat for health reasons should do
The time of the Great Fast, which is underway, brings with it a specific character, full of repentance and sadness for sins.
TL;DR
- The Vaskršnji post (Easter Fast), the longest and strictest Orthodox fast, begins tomorrow and lasts seven weeks.
- It is a time of spiritual and physical abstinence in preparation for Easter, commemorating Jesus Christ's 40-day fast.
- The fast involves abstaining from meat, milk, eggs, and animal products, with most days being 'on water'.
- The most rigorous days are the first week and the final week (Strasna sedmica), with special emphasis on prayer.
- Beyond food, the fast emphasizes abstaining from negative thoughts, words, gossip, and quarrels.
- Those unable to fast for health reasons are advised by St. John Chrysostom to practice charity, prayer, and actively listen to God's word.
- For those exempt from fasting, overcoming malice, making peace with enemies, and spiritual diligence are considered true fasting.