Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Beginning on Saturday, November 15, Orthodox Christians begin preparing for the celebration of the Feast of the Nativity of Our Lord, God and Savior Jesus Christ.  The Nativity Fast, which begins on the 15th of November and culminates in the celebration of the Nativity of Our Lord on December 25, once again presents each of us another opportunity of "renewal" as we continue our pilgrimage of life that God has set before us.

As with all fasting seasons of the Church, our "renewal" at this time of year, or any time, is really a gift from God.  We should all be aware of the fact that, all good comes from God Who is The Good, and that He graces us with His presence as experienced through our life in Jesus Christ and His Church.  The essence of this "renewal" is not accomplished through our efforts, as noble as they may be, but by the grace and power of the Holy Spirit.  Indeed, our fasting, prayers and giving alms to those in need are hallmarks of a people who bear the Spirit of God, but we must be reminded that we cannot earn our salvation - it is a pure and free gift of God.  Yes, we are to fast, yes we must pray and yes we are obliged to feed and clothe the poor.  These acts of love and charity are results of the freedom that each of us has received through Christ who has freed us from the bondage of sin and death.  As we approach the Nativity Fast, I offer you a reminder to embrace the Good News of Jesus Christ in the spirit of thanksgiving and joy, which is at the heart of the Christian faith.

In Christ Jesus,

Fr. Jason