Great Lent 2020 will remain in our minds as a special visitation from God and challenge to our faith.
We are witness to the fact that our regular life is changing because of limitations imposed in order to stop the speed of the dangerous illness. Because of this the government of Victoria has introduced temporary bans on the places of worship.
We need to follow the guidelines imposed by the government in order to protect the health of people and because of this we are forced to cease general services in our Holy Trinity parish.
But as Christians we do not need to fall into a state of fear and panic.
We need to accept what is happening with humility and mindfulness.
Our Lord, Jesus Christ says to us, «Do not fear, Little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.» (Luke 12:32)
Lent is a time for limitations, solitude, repentance and prayer. We have an opportunity this year to increase our personal prayer at home and to experience spiritual support from each other.
Services by the clergy and prayers for our community will continue, but for now without parishioners. We are waiting for instruction from the hierarchy in Moscow about how to proceed with our parish life during these extreme times.
Pastoral care and Holy Communion to the sick, the support of those who are in need will continue as usual. Prayers will continue to be said for those who are listed in our notes and booklets. New names for inclusion can be sent to the priest, deacon Leonid or to our warden, Alexander.
May God give us strength, mindfulness and love for all those close to us during this time of Great Lent.
With Love in the Lord!
Very. Rev. Fr. Igor Filianovsky
