On the Third Sunday of the Great Fast we commemorate the Precious and Life-Giving Cross of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

In Mark 9:17-31, Jesus encounters a man whose son is possessed by a spirit that causes him to have seizures and foam at the mouth...

On the fourth Sunday of the Great Fast we commemorate Saint John Climacus, or Saint John of the Ladder, a 6th century abbot and advocate of Christian asceticism.

In the Gospel of Mark, (Mark 10:32-45), Jesus foretells his death and resurrection to his disciples. He explains to them that he will be betrayed, condemned, mocked, spat upon, flogged, and ultimately killed, but will rise again after three days. This passage highlights Jesus' willingness to endure suffering and death for the salvation of humanity.

In John 12:1-18, we hear the story of Jesus' arrival in Bethany, where he is welcomed by Mary, Martha, and their brother Lazarus. Mary anoints Jesus' feet with expensive perfume, which Judas criticizes as a waste of money. However, Jesus defends Mary's actions, praising her for preparing him for his burial. The scene shifts to the next day...

Christ is Risen! Indeed He is Risen!