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3rd out of 51 books
—
12 voters
Great Lent: Journey to Pascha
This revised edition of Father Alexander Schmemann's Lenten classic examines the meaning of Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts, the Prayer of St Ephraim the Syrian, the Canon of St Andrew of Crete and other neglected or misunderstood treasures of Lenten worship. Schmemann draws on the Church's sacramental and liturgical tradition to suggest the meaning of Lent in our life....more
Paperback, 140 pages
Published
January 1st 1974
by St. Vladimir's Seminary Press
(first published January 1st 1969)
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This is another liturgical classic from Alexander Schmemann. He helpfully explains the principles behind the development of the Orthodox Church Year, and shows how all of our worship leads up to Easter. You don't have to be Orthodox to profit from this book, as Schmemann is generous with criticisms of his own tradition, as well as the Western tradition. He closes with practical observations on how to focus on God in the midst of busy, frentic, and secular life-style. This is the main point of th...more
I think the value of this book for me will increase over time, when I reread it as my knowledge and practice of lent develop.
For a neophyte, it was instructive in describing the prelenten services and the Presanctified Liturgy, though some of it was confusing and certainly went over my head.
Much of the book seemed to be corrective in regards to the attitude of contemporary Orthodox attitudes and practice. While I think some things have changed from his time, much has also remained the same, and...more
For a neophyte, it was instructive in describing the prelenten services and the Presanctified Liturgy, though some of it was confusing and certainly went over my head.
Much of the book seemed to be corrective in regards to the attitude of contemporary Orthodox attitudes and practice. While I think some things have changed from his time, much has also remained the same, and...more
This book is very readable, but it contains so much to ponder that it is definitely a candidate for multiple re-readings. Reading it during the weeks leading up to Lent seems the most logical, as one can then experience first-hand what Schmemann is writing about.
For those who are non-Orthodox but are interested in Orthodoxy, this book actually wouldn't be a bad place to start. There is a tremendous amount of information contained in these pages, both historical and theological. For those wonderi...more
For those who are non-Orthodox but are interested in Orthodoxy, this book actually wouldn't be a bad place to start. There is a tremendous amount of information contained in these pages, both historical and theological. For those wonderi...more
Alexander Schmemann's work always has miracles within it. This was no exception. The first chapters were excellent examinations of Lent and how to approach it, although dealing with the unique Eastern Orthodox Liturgy. Not as broad based as some of his other works. Still, Father Schmemann is a gifted writer who explains the sacramental nature of the world with great insight and love, not to say joy.
Great BASIC introduction to the meaning of Lent and the journey to Pascha. It explains how lent is a "journey to the Kingdom of God" through introspection, reflection, repentence and renewal with the climax being the ressurection on Pascha. It was good for a one-time read to help you understand why we do Lent.
Alexander Schmemann is a fine theologian - what a privilege I had to read this during Great Lent! He so clearly outlines the secular way of life to the sacramental living in Orthodox life - although he apparently says far more about this in "for the life of the world" I greatly look forward to reading this!
I'm always currently reading this book, but especially now. Schmemann saw something in his journeys and has come back to tell us about it. Every page of this book opens new truths to the soul and reveals gifts and graces that should never be forgotten.
My favorite of all Schmemann's books--here he is at his most lyrical and insightful, indeed joyful.
Mar 03, 2012
Neil
is currently reading it
Even just the first 30 pages will rock your Lenten understanding! Paradigm shifting and Faith building!
a definite read every year.....
I'm not Orthodox but I always come away from Alexander Schmemann's books with plenty of things to consider. "Great Lent" was no different. I especially appreciated the first section where Fr. Schmemann considers how to approach Lent. Speaking only as a Protestant, Lenten practice within my tradition leaves a LOT to be desired. Protestants would do well to read this section of "Great Lent" with open eyes and receptive hearts.
THE seminal work on Lenten spirituality! Sometimes a bit difficult to wade through, but always worth the extra time and work...not unlike Lent itself.
The Classic Father Schmemann work on Lent wonderful if your studying liturgies or just trying to be inspired spiritually.
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2012 Rereading for the 6th time - this time with the parish discussion group. For me it best captures what Great Lent is to be about.
I know this author by reputation - his writings on liturgy are profoundly shaping.
practical parts begin on page 87! Rock on Schmemann!
Jun 04, 2013
Matthew Ainsley
marked it as to-read
Jun 01, 2013
Brandon
marked it as to-read
May 19, 2013
Linda Foster
marked it as to-read
May 12, 2013
Rebecca
marked it as to-read
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