Archdiocese News

Sunday of Orthodoxy Appeal from Metropolitan Saba, 2026

"Our seminarians, together with their wives and families, have embraced a life of sacrifice, faith, and service to Christ and His Holy Church," writes Metropolitan Saba. "They are preparing their hearts and minds to shepherd Christ’s flock, to teach the Gospel, and to sustain the very faith we celebrate today."

Lenten Resources from Ancient Faith Ministries

For inquirers, new Orthodox Christians, and longtime faithful members of the Church, Great Lent is a time for experiencing a deeper connection with Christ. Ancient Faith offers many podcasts and books to aid Orthodox believers in the Lenten journey.

Fasting, the Door to Spiritual Treasure

Fasting is an important spiritual struggle that carries us into the Kingdom of God. Combined with increased prayer and almsgiving, fasting helps us to say ‘no’ to the bodily desires in order to say ‘yes’ to the spiritual riches of the virtues of Christ.

Cheesefare Sunday (Forgiveness Sunday)

In her enduring wisdom and love for mankind, the Church provides us with a period of preparation before we enter Great Lent. We have passed through the Sundays of Zacchaeus, the Publican and the Pharisee, the Last Judgment, and now finally with today - the Sunday which commemorates the expulsion of Adam from Paradise.

Cheesefare Saturday: Ascetics and Monastics

On this day, the Holy Orthodox Church commemorates all the holy men and women, known and unknown, who shone forth in the ascetic life.

Great Lent Message from Patriarch John X, 2026

"Make yourself a bride for that heavenly Bridegroom, who refuses to dwell except in souls ruled by humility, inhabited by repentance, and in which mercy is manifested in deeds and not merely in words," His Beatitude writes.

Great Lent Message from Metropolitan Saba, 2026

"True fasting leads us into the depths of ourselves, where we confront our weakness, confess our sins, and open our hearts to the work of grace," His Eminence writes.

Food For Hungry People 2026 Lenten Appeal

"As we approach the holy season of Great Lent, we are reminded of the words of our Lord: 'For I was hungry and you gave Me food, I was thirsty and you gave Me drink...'" writes Metropolitan Saba. "These words call us to a life of mercy and compassion, especially during this time of spiritual renewal."

Travelling Lightly on the Path of Salvation

As we approach the Great Fast, Bishop Thomas reminds us that "Almsgiving is not new to us but instead is a faithful and familiar friend who helps us travel lightly on the path of salvation until we reach perfection in Christ."