In this pastoral message, Fr. Elijah prepares the church for the beginning of the Holy Great Lent, reminding us that Lent is not a season of deprivation, but a season of healing and transformation.

He lays out the spiritual foundation of a true Lenten life: prayer, fasting, repentance, charity, and guarding the senses. The focus of Lent is not simply changing food habits, but deepening union with Christ through consistent spiritual discipline and inner renewal.

This sermon offers practical guidance for living Lent intentionally: increasing prayer, fasting from distractions, returning to confession, practicing mercy, and allowing Christ to transform the heart.