Lent, the most important Lent of the Orthodox Church, is a period of purification of soul and body, during which the faithful prepare themselves for the Resurrection of the Lord. For 40 days, Christians are called to practise prayer, restraint and good deeds, with the aim of strengthening their faith and drawing closer to God.

Asked by IPN, Archimandrite Mihail Fagurel, parish priest of the "Nativity of the Virgin Mary" church in the village of Samascani, emphasizes that Lent means not only abstaining from certain foods, but also an exercise of self-control over the five senses - hearing, taste, smell, sight and touch. According to him, fasting teaches self-control and directs one's thoughts towards spiritual values such as patience, humility, moderation and kindness.

Archimandrite Mikhail Fagurel says the diet during this period is simple, based on vegetables, fruit and oil-free food. The more devout observe a more rigorous fast, but this is recommended only for healthy people with the blessing of the priest. On the other hand, the sick, children or the elderly can adapt the fast according to their means, with a greater emphasis on prayer.

Besides dietary restrictions, Lent also involves spiritual discipline. The prayer of St. Ephrem Sir - "Lord and Master of my life..." - is one of the most often said during this period.

"The shortest prayer it is good to say is the prayer of the publican: 'O God, be merciful to me, a sinner' - we say it anytime and anywhere," added Fr. Mihail Fagurel.

The significant days: the Friday of the Crucifixion, Maundy Thursday and Palm Sunday have a special significance as moments of deep meditation on the Savior's sacrifice.

Lent is not only a religious tradition, but also an opportunity to improve relations between people. By forgiving and renouncing judgment of others, the faithful cleanse not only their bodies but also their souls. According to Fr. Mihail Fagurel, fasting should be lived not only individually, but also in the community, bringing peace, harmony and strengthening the bonds between people.

"I think that the only and most painful mistake during Lent would be when people judge each other and do not receive each other as they are," the priest explained.

Lent begins on Monday, March 3, and will end with the Week of Lent, culminating with the Feast of the Resurrection. A special highlight this year is that all Christians, Catholics and Orthodox, regardless of which calendar they follow, will celebrate Easter on the same day, April 20.