Great Lent Spiritual Initiatives in our Holy Metropolis

This year, as in years past, our Metropolis has implemented a number of initiatives specific to the period of Great Lent for the spiritual nourishment and growth of the faithful.

One such initiative is the Philoptochos Retreats that happen across Canada. Led by His Eminence Metropolitan Sotirios, they traditionally take place on a Saturday and begin by celebrating the Divine Liturgy. This is followed by a homily from His Eminence to the assembled parishioners, and finally a question-and-answer session where the Metropolitan responds to queries from the faithful in a most fatherly manner. Thereafter, the local parish priest also offers a presentation.

Other programs are designed specifically for youth in many provinces, such as all-day regional assemblies where are youth gather together in Christ for spiritual activities, including church service, confession, and group discussions.

Our Holy Metropolis also continues to communicate with faithful across Canada, and indeed around the world, through electronic means. Last year’s successful 40 Day Challenge is being followed-up on with a Great Lent: Sunday Bible Readinginitiative this year, which is emailed and available online every Sunday during Great Lent.

Moreover, our Metropolis continued this year the long-established practice of bringing a father confessor from Mount Athos. In 2018, Fr. Palamas from the Holy Monastery of Stavronikita visited almost 20 parishes in Québec and Ontario, as well as both of our monasteries: Panagia Parigoritissa and Patrokosmas.

In addition to celebrating church services and hearing the confessions of the faithful, Fr. Palamas gave two keynote homilies, one in Montreal at the Church of the Annunciation, the other in Toronto at the Church of St. Nicholas. Hundreds upon hundreds of pious faithful attended the homilies on the subject: The Enduring Truth of the Lord’s Commandments. We express our appreciation and gratitude to both Fr. Palamas and Abbot Tikhon of Stavronikita for their collaboration and support.

We hope and pray that the Greek Orthodox faithful across Canada spiritually prepare themselves to approach Holy Week and experience the passion of Christ and of course His glorious Resurrection.