Great Canon of Repentance in Cologne opened the first week of Lent
On February 23, 2026, the Great Compline was celebrated in the Cologne church of the Pochaev Icon of the Mother of God, combined with the reading of the first section of the Great Canon of Repentance by Andrew of Crete. The celebration fell on Monday of the first week of Great Lent. This was reported by the UOC community in Cologne. The Great Canon of Repentance is among the most significant liturgical texts of the first week of Lent. It invites the faithful to repentance, inner reflection, and spiritual reorientation. With its profound prayers and numerous biblical references, it is intended to help prepare for the journey of the Lenten season.
The liturgical celebration highlights the spiritual depth of the first days of Lent, which in Orthodox tradition are regarded as a phase of intensified prayer, inner gathering, and turning toward the Easter mysteries.
Previously, UOJ reported that Metropolitan Mark celebrated a forgiveness rite at the beginning of Lent in Milan.
Read also
Metropolitan Seraphim: "Without forgiveness, fasting remains fruitless"
Metropolitan Serafim emphasized spiritual renewal through fasting, prayer, and active charity.
Medical Assembly Calls for Reform of Abortion Law
Medical professionals advocated for decriminalization while maintaining mandatory counseling and protection of freedom of conscience.
Police asked for tips following attack on Ghanaian girls
Investigations into racist violence following assault by youth group in Grevesmühlen.
Patriarch of Alexandria called for reconciliation at the beginning of Lent
Theodore II publicly forgives critics and emphasizes the unity and missionary task of the Church in Africa.
Patriarch Porfirije: "Fasting leads to communion with God"
Serbian Primate emphasized the spiritual significance of prayer, forgiveness, and inner conversion at the beginning of Great Lent.
Leadership Body of the Metropolis of Sweden Convened Before the Beginning of Lent
Metropolitan Kleopas expresses gratitude for voluntary engagement and extends blessing wishes for the Great Lent.