From the very beginning of the past week, which is also called the “Vestibule of Repentance,” “Forefeast of Abstinence,” or “Preparatory Week of the Holy Fast,” the Holy Orthodox Church has, through its divine services, continuously called for heartfelt repentance—a repentance that brings forgiveness of sins and thus opens the gates to true fasting. The Gospel reading for Cheesefare Sunday particularly reveals how these gates of repentance and genuine fasting are opened:
“For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses…” (Matthew 6:14–21).
Typikon for the Forgiveness Sunday Vespers – 2025
The Bigorski Monastery, which has always carefully upheld the order of divine services, fully observes this profound and sacred service. Thus, we invite the faithful once again to participate in this deeply moving vespers, which will take place on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at 5:00 PM. The service concludes with the Great Lenten Prayer of Saint Ephraim the Syrian, accompanied by great prostrations, as well as the solemn mutual forgiveness between the faithful and the monastics.
The Holy Fathers have established this unique service on the eve of Great Lent, granting the faithful an opportunity to seek forgiveness from one another and thus begin the Holy Fast in a spirit of purity and reconciliation. Rooted in monastic tradition, the Sunday evening vespers at Bigorski Monastery is a deeply moving experience for all present. A great multitude gathers to take part in this sacred moment, entering the fast with true repentance and reconciliation.
The sight within the temple truly warms the heart and kindles the soul toward repentance. Eyes fill with tears as the poignant and sobering vesperal hymns resound throughout the church. The atmosphere of contrition reaches its peak during the special kneeling prayers, which the Abbot of the Holy Monastery, His Grace Bishop Parthenius, solemnly recites before all, fervently beseeching God’s forgiveness and blessing for the approaching Holy Fast.
May the beginning of Great Lent be blessed for all. Let us reconcile with one another and forgive one another!
Confession with the Elder and other spiritual fathers of the monastery will be available throughout all weekends and weekdays of the fast, except during Trimiron (the first three days of complete fasting).
