Lenten Spring

the Lenten Spring by Fr Thomas Hopko There are few modern Orthodox writers with the widespread profile and reputation of Fr Thomas Hopko. A priest of the Orthodox Church of America (OCA), Fr Tom – as he is known – was a prolific author and speaker right to his death in 2012. His works are characterised by their ability to reconcile the patristic and traditional ethos of Orthodoxy to the modern world and the daily lives familiar to all. In the book “A Lenten Spring”, Fr Tom provides forty ‘reflections’ on the period of Great Lent. They are relatively short, able to be read on a regular basis. His style is thought-provoking and reflective, tying together the writings of the early church and hymnology to help guide the approach to the Lenten Season. The title itself, “A Lenten Spring”, betrays its Northern Hemisphere origin but itself has a significance. In the northern hemisphere, Lent and Pascha take place during Spring. The author aligns the Lenten spirit with the images of Spring – it is a period of awakening and growth. This counters the often-misunderstood nature of Great Lent. It is easy to consider Lent as a time of deprivation, of abstinence, trudging along the ORTHODOX MISSION BOOKSTORE 217 Bexley Rd, Kingsgrove, Sydney NSW 2208 (02) 9787 9779

long road looking forward only to the glorious feast of the Resurrection. Christ himself warned against this attitude, saying “and when you fast, do not look dismal, like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by men. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by men but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” Fr Tom, through his reflections, encourages a more active and positive engagement with the Lenten season. He writes, “the Lenten spirit in the Church is one of splendour and delight. It breathes with the exhilaration of those girding up to ‘fight the good fight’ for the One who loves them. It’s the invitation to a spiritual adventure. The Church welcomes the Lenten spring with the spirit of exultation!” Each reflection is based on a specific theme, loosely aligned to the Church calendar during the lent period. For example, reflections 6 and 7 relate to the Last Judgement, which is the theme of the last Sunday prior to Great Lent. In this way, the book allows the reader to take a ‘journey’ through the various messages and reminders that the Church places throughout the Lenten period. As a companion to the faithful Orthodox Christian during the Lenten period, this book is a valuable supplement for a demanding period of the year. It helps set the right framework and attitude, allowing for a truly joyful experience of the Resurrection. Browse more books in store Monday – Saturday 10am – 2pm Or on our website: orthodoxbookstore.org.au

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