St. Ignatius Brianchaninov 1807-1867 (Russian Orthodox) Here is a wonderful sermon on fasting. You can see it on the Orthodox blog, "Redeeming the Time" here St. Ignatius Brianchaninov 1807-1867 (Russian Orthodox) Here is a wonderful sermon on fasting. You can see it on the Orthodox blog, "Redeeming the Time" here 
Thanks for posting this. Ignatius Brianchaninov can take one's breath away at times.
ReplyDeleteThe requirement for fasting has always puzzled me. I believe two of the gospels do not include the "and fasting" with the requirement for prayer.
ReplyDeleteAs a scientist and a Christian I try to see the mechanisms involved and, whilst we are told not to put God to the test, studies have been done.(SEE Dr Larry Dossey's book Healing Words).
Fasting from a medical angle has been associated with a reduction in arthritic pain and cholesterol. Its effect on negativity, however you wish to define this, is interesting. Perhaps the discipline of the person fasting affects the Collective Unconscious. The mind does seem to alter the physical universe.
(C. G. Jung's research found an increase in ionisation around people claiming conctact with the paranormal).
It is intriguing that Our Lord advised this and probably has to remain a mystery like so many things (which is hard for a scientist!).
Good stuff. I like the fact that old nick flees if he sees we are fasting. I could do with a break! I am goimg to give it a real go, with God's help.
ReplyDeleteThank you for posting Father.
That sermon is very powerful Father. Makes me wish I understood more about the Orthodox Church.
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