Lenten Book Study

Tuesday evenings, beginning April 2nd, 2024.

6:30pm Akathist, 7pm – 8:30pm Book Study

In-person at the church or join by Zoom.

We will be doing the Lenten book study on Fr. Armatas’s Book “ A Practical Guide to Prayer, Fasting, and Almsgiving”. A very relevant topic as we enter Great Lent.

“Fr. Evan has done something wonderful here: Distill not only important but essential elements for a fundamental sound footing in a believer’s spiritual life that are easy to read, comprehend, and put into faithful practice. Weaving the Scriptural basis for each of three principles – prayer, almsgiving, and fasting – he connects them to the need to practice them within the life of the church, and not only as or merely as one’s own private devotions disconnected from the liturgical and sacramental life of the church. By doing this he shows the believer the power of the Holy Spirit that can be made real in our life when we submit and then open our life to the spiritual disciplines which then produce spiritual growth.

As our Lord himself details in the Sermon on the Mount in the Gospel according to St. Matthew, we are not given a choice about these three principles: “When” we pray, “When we give alms” and “When we fast” are imperatives, commands, things that are expected of us. But Fr. Evan takes it further for the believer: Here’s how you can start, here’s how you get ready, here’s what to expect, and here’s how to keep going. Many believers might know they “have” to do something, but often don’t know “how” to begin. This book is an excellent resource for just that.

This is not only a great book for all parish catechumens, but for all Orthodox Christians who seek to deepen their walk with Christ and their growth in “life, and faith, and spiritual understanding” (Second Prayer of the Faithful, The Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom). It is eminently accessible, understandable, and vital for today’s spiritual warrior and servant of God.”

(one of many reviews of this book)

The books have already been ordered. Let us know by email if you would like to come or would like the ZOOM link sent to you, or just show up!