February 2026 Lenten Letter from Father Menas

Why Lent?

“Always rejoice!”

Thus the Holy Apostle Paul counsels us at the end of his first letter to the Thessalonians. But how can we rejoice when there is so much suffering and injustice in the world? He tells us:

“Pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

We all need to be reminded, reoriented. Some small distraction comes along and we forget where we are going. We lose focus.

This is why the Church gives us seasons of fasting: to step out of the whirlwind and onto the path of peace and joy. What an amazing opportunity! To make a new beginning, to clear away the garbage clinging to us, dragging us into the muck of this world. Then we step into the Paschal service clean, fresh, invigorated. And how great the joy when we sing: Christ is Risen!

Yours in the Risen Christ,

Father Menas, Superior

And all the Brotherhood