coptichymns.net - Sharing the Joy of Coptic Hymns Around the World

The most important aspect of this fast is spiritual benefit. Before we appreciate any fast, we must learn what fasting is and how to fast. To that end, we recommend the following materials:

1. The Concept of Fasting in the Holy Bible by Fr. Daniel Sous
2. Spiritual Exercises While Fasting by His Holiness Pope Shenouda III
3. The Meaning of Fasting by Fr. Abraham Azmy
4. The Proper Fast and Its Effects According to the Fathers by Mena Rizkalla (a/k/a Fortunatus)
5. How and Why We Fast by the Servants' Manual

Once we have refreshed our memories concerning fasting generally and gaining benefit therefrom, we may try to learn more about this particular fast. To that extent, The Virigin's Fast by His Holiness Pope Shenouda III and Saint Mary in the Orthodox Concept, Part I by the Servants' Manual is a good introductory article about our veneration of the Holy Virgin Mary.

Most churches will hold daily or otherwise frequent services, including Vesper Raisings of Incense, Holy Liturgies, Glorifications and Midnight Praises. We recommend the following resources to help you learn and properly chant all of this fast's wonderful hymns:

1. Glorification Hymns from the Streaming Hymns section

May you find these humble resources beneficial as you journey through Saint Mary's Fast. If you have suggestions for additional resources, please contact an admin to have them added.  May the intercessions of Saint Mary, the Holy Theotokos, be with us all.

Kulli sana we antum tayebeen.

coptichymns.net 2006

*Originally posted August 2005 and updated in August 2006.