Procession of the Honorable Wood of the Life-Giving Cross of the Lord (First of the three “Feasts of the Savior” in August)

https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2020/08/01/102161-procession-of-the-honorable-wood-of-the-life-giving-cross-of-the

On August 1^st, the Feast of the Procession of the Holy Cross, we mark the beginning of the observance of the Holy Dormition Lent.  This is one  of the “Four Lents” of the year.  It is held to prepare us to honorably celebrate the Feast of the Dormition of the Mother of God, on August 15^th.  This two week Fast is given to us engage in spiritual renewal – an increase of prayer, daily fasting for 14 days, cultivating a spirit of repentance and availing ourselves of the Holy Mysteries of Confession and Communion. In these days of the Lent, we strive to be more akin to the Theotokos, asking for her intercession and following her example of a life, lived in virtue, submission to the will of God, and faithfulness in service to Our Lord Jesus Christ.  The Holy Theotokos is the brilliant example of the human being sanctified and abiding in complete love for God.  Let this Lent be embraced in a meaningful and fruitful manner by all of us.