CHICAGO, IL [DOM] – Great Lent is a particularly meaningful time of preparation for those journeying toward full reception into the Orthodox Church at Pascha. Across the Diocese of the Midwest, many men and women are deepening their prayer, study, and spiritual formation as they prepare to receive the Sacraments that will fully unite them to Christ and His Church.
This year, the diocese is witnessing a remarkable increase among those soon to be received into the Church. According to Priest Esteban Vazquez, Vice Chancellor of the Diocese, there are just over 1,100 catechumens preparing to enter the Church at this time.
These catechumens are being welcomed by parish communities throughout the diocese and are being guided in their formation by parish priests, deacons, and dedicated lay catechists. Together, local communities accompany them through prayer, instruction, personal encouragement, and shared participation in the life of the Church.
“The season of Lent is especially significant for catechumens, both historically and liturgically,” Fr. Esteban said. “Through prayer, fasting, and reflection, they are called to draw closer to Christ and to prepare their hearts to receive the fullness of His Gifts.”
During Lent, catechumens continue their religious education and spiritual formation, participate in the worship of the Church and its Lenten services, and take part in the disciplines of the Fast. In this way, they carry on their journey toward Baptism, Chrismation, and Communion of the Holy Mysteries, and to full participation in the life of the Church. The commitment of these catechumens and their desire to share in the fullness of the Christian faith are signs of hope and renewal for the entire Church, encouraging and edifying the faithful everywhere.
The clergy, monastics, and faithful throughout the Diocese of the Midwest are encouraged to keep these catechumens in their prayers during this holy season, asking that God strengthen them as they prepare to embrace the fullness of the Church’s faith and life.
