By observing the Apostles’ Fast, we can share in the Apostles’ struggle and consider how we are supposed to spread the gospel.
by Dominic Cassella | National Catholic Register
This year, on May 19, we celebrated Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit descended upon the Apostles and the holy Theotokos. Traditionally, this is marked as the beginning of the Church. It is fitting that, in the Byzantine tradition, this feast is followed by the Sunday of All Saints.
The trajectory of the Byzantine liturgical year is obvious. From the darkness of Lent to the deep sadness of the Crucifixion, the celebration of Easter lasts 40 days until Christ’s Ascension into heaven. Ten days later, the Holy Spirit descended, and with the establishment of the Church, we celebrate all of her holy saints on Sunday after Pentecost. But, at this point, the celebration is put on pause. The Monday after the Byzantine Feast of All Saints begins the Apostles’ Fast, which terminates on June 29, the Feast of the Holy Apostles, Sts. Peter and Paul.
