Nativity Fast Begins on November 15

Detail from 11th Century Nativity Fresco, CappadociaThis Sunday, November 15, 2009, is the beginning of this year's Nativity Fast. The Nativity Fast is one of the four Canonical Fasting Seasons in the Church year. This is a joyous fast in anticipation of the Nativity of Christ. In the weeks between now and December 25, Orthodox Christians prepare themselves to celebrate to birth in the flesh of our Lord Jesus Christ. As we begin the fast, both believing Orthodox and inquirers may find the following resources helpful as they approach this time of preparation:

• With the Nativity Fast (Advent) upon us, what’s the point of this season?
• Sunday's Child: Christmas and the Family
• Unless the Lord Comes to Us: Advent Reflections
• Prayer and Liturgics for Nativity Season
• Guidelines for the Nativity Fast