Pre-Nativity Fast Message
Fr. Christos Christofidis

The inspired hymnographers of our Orthodox faith invite us during these days of the Pre-Nativity Fast, to take a journey, a mystical journey, which brings us to a dark cave in Bethlehem. In order to take this mystical journey, we must prepare ourselves by cleansing the inner cave of our hearts. As Saint Athanasios teaches us: "God became man without sin, so that man can become God-like through grace. God the Word was born once in the flesh, but He always wishes to be born in the Spirit within us, and this happens when we desire it and increase our virtues. That divine Child, Who came into the world out of His love for mankind, grows within us as we increase in love, philanthropy, and other virtues. According to Saint Symeon the New Theologian, "each of us is called to be a birth-giver of God, a Theotokos in spirit."
As we take our mystical journey to the Birth of Christ, let us glorify Him by constantly thanking Him with our lives; by feeding the poor and hungry, by looking after those who are ill, and by visiting the shut-ins and all those who are needy of some hope or comfort, and especially those who are lonely. Let us abstain from intoxication and idle conversations. Let us abstain from over adoring ourselves externally, but rather adorn our souls with virtues. Let us not eat gluttonously, but rather give extra to the poor. Let us abstain from evil sights and words, and fill our minds with godly thoughts.
If we travel our mystical journey in this manner, then we will truly celebrate the Birth of Christ. The Angels of God will rejoice over us, and Christ will be born in us. Enter this season with vigilance, with prayerful reflection on the Scripture readings, with a more conscious and active participation in the Divine Liturgies of the Pre-Nativity Season.
I pray that the Incarnate Lord will bless you and your family with heavenly joy, peace, with health and increased faith. May we celebrate together the holy wonder of our Lord`s Nativity.