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Pilgrimage to Pascha: A Daily Devotional for Great Lent
This unpretentious little book of meditations based on Scripture, ancient hymns, and writings from Church Fathers will nourish the souls of reflective seekers during the forty-day period of Great Lent. Authors of each meditation have delved deeply into the sins and shortcomings of their own hearts, enabling readers to share in a collective human experience—from darkness to light, from despair to hope, and from isolation to commonality in the body of Christ—as they move steadily toward our Lord’s Resurrection. Orthodox theology—as practiced by those who are properly qualified by both training and a deep relationship with Christ.
172 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 2, 2021
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36 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
March 30, 2022
A review of Pilgramage to Pascha, A daily devotional for Great Lent. Written by Archpriest John Belonick with Michele Constable and Michael Soroko and narrated by Kristina Wenger.
First, let me say this is the audible version which I loved Kristina Wenger does an outstanding job in her narration is clear, concise and wasn’t just reading the material but really became a part of it and it made for quite enjoyable listening.
This is a book I’ve wanted since I started learning more about the Eastern Church. The devotional book especially for lent and advent seems quite common in the western church and I was quite sad that I hadn’t found more similar books for the East. This is an awesome book as it goes through a reading .. meditation and its nice that it includes what the writer gets from the reading as opposed to just having a reading itself. In addition there is a saint of the day as it were for each dayI want a print copy of this so i can flip through it throughout the year because while this is geared specifically towards lent there was so much in this book and many days had passages that would be good for meditating on at other times. For example the fifth sunday of great lent has a brief outline of one of my favorite saints, Mary of Egypt. There will be many times I would want to go back to read her section again.
I tried to listen both in the morning and at night it was interesting to see what i had thought about the days meditation and how things may have changed by the end of the day. This book is good for those who are already eastern catholics and orthodox but also those who are western catholics, other Christians and those of other faiths because it gives such a beautiful look at the Eastern Church and the Pascha journey. I have read several of Ancient Faiths books, but this by far is my favorite so far and it has deepened my faith as I hope it will everyone who reads it.
First, let me say this is the audible version which I loved Kristina Wenger does an outstanding job in her narration is clear, concise and wasn’t just reading the material but really became a part of it and it made for quite enjoyable listening.
This is a book I’ve wanted since I started learning more about the Eastern Church. The devotional book especially for lent and advent seems quite common in the western church and I was quite sad that I hadn’t found more similar books for the East. This is an awesome book as it goes through a reading .. meditation and its nice that it includes what the writer gets from the reading as opposed to just having a reading itself. In addition there is a saint of the day as it were for each dayI want a print copy of this so i can flip through it throughout the year because while this is geared specifically towards lent there was so much in this book and many days had passages that would be good for meditating on at other times. For example the fifth sunday of great lent has a brief outline of one of my favorite saints, Mary of Egypt. There will be many times I would want to go back to read her section again.
I tried to listen both in the morning and at night it was interesting to see what i had thought about the days meditation and how things may have changed by the end of the day. This book is good for those who are already eastern catholics and orthodox but also those who are western catholics, other Christians and those of other faiths because it gives such a beautiful look at the Eastern Church and the Pascha journey. I have read several of Ancient Faiths books, but this by far is my favorite so far and it has deepened my faith as I hope it will everyone who reads it.
April 9, 2023
Excellent daily devotional for reading during Lent.
February 19, 2021
Every Lent, I, like so many others, struggle to incorporate Scripture and other spiritual reading into my fasting disciplines. I also grapple with not taking on so much extra that I overburden myself to the point of breaking. “Pilgrimage to Pascha: A Daily Devotional for Great Lent” hits the sweet spot to provide spiritual benefit without the burnout. As the authors themselves define their work, “…easily digestible daily nourishment from the Tradition of the Orthodox Church as you undertake your Lenten pilgrimage.”
The book begins on Clean Monday and ends on Palm Saturday (with a chapter for Annunciation included at the end for easy reference). The chapters themselves are each a single day in Lent and include the following; again from the authors:
“Each portion in this little book contains a reference for a selected prescribed scriptural passage from either the Old or New testament, a meditation on that scripture, practical advice from the Church Fathers and other saintly writers, an excerpt from a liturgical hymn, an edifying life of a saint, and a concluding prayer.”
This daily formula is connected in such a way to be read together as only Orthodox tradition can meld, but at the same time each portion can be read independently throughout the day, (useful for mother of small children like myself with limited chunks of time), without being any less edifying. Each portion is even compact enough to be re-read throughout the day or in some cases, memorized.
My only preference would have been if each day could have been fit onto two pages instead of three, so when the reader opened the book they see the whole day at once, but it in no way hampered my reading and I can understand how more line spacing is often easier for many to read.
Inversely, since there are three pages per day, I would have preferred if the daily Scriptures cited had its text fully written out, but then again, this is the time of year we should be reading our Bibles most and I did find myself often reading verses further than those prescribed in the book which is beneficial
Overall I have no doubt this book will alleviate Lenten stress for the reader instead of add to it. No matter if you read it cover to cover or are only able to get to certain days, you will be mentally and spiritually gratified.
The book begins on Clean Monday and ends on Palm Saturday (with a chapter for Annunciation included at the end for easy reference). The chapters themselves are each a single day in Lent and include the following; again from the authors:
“Each portion in this little book contains a reference for a selected prescribed scriptural passage from either the Old or New testament, a meditation on that scripture, practical advice from the Church Fathers and other saintly writers, an excerpt from a liturgical hymn, an edifying life of a saint, and a concluding prayer.”
This daily formula is connected in such a way to be read together as only Orthodox tradition can meld, but at the same time each portion can be read independently throughout the day, (useful for mother of small children like myself with limited chunks of time), without being any less edifying. Each portion is even compact enough to be re-read throughout the day or in some cases, memorized.
My only preference would have been if each day could have been fit onto two pages instead of three, so when the reader opened the book they see the whole day at once, but it in no way hampered my reading and I can understand how more line spacing is often easier for many to read.
Inversely, since there are three pages per day, I would have preferred if the daily Scriptures cited had its text fully written out, but then again, this is the time of year we should be reading our Bibles most and I did find myself often reading verses further than those prescribed in the book which is beneficial
Overall I have no doubt this book will alleviate Lenten stress for the reader instead of add to it. No matter if you read it cover to cover or are only able to get to certain days, you will be mentally and spiritually gratified.
Read
May 13, 2021Pilgrimage to Pascha offers another way to experience
the peacefulness of the Lenten season. It provides a set of
readings for each day—with a scripture reading, then a
meditation from that reading.
From the meditation for the Friday of the first week of
Lent:
I feel lost when I choose to do things I know are contrary to
His way. I feel lost when I willingly allow certain influences, rather than the Lord, to govern my life. I feel lost whenever I am satisfied to have a feeble, anemic relationship with God. “Where are you?” Today I am offered this question, just as God posed it to Adam and Eve, with His
same intention: love and concern for me. God actively and ceaselessly seeks me out, but He never attempts to force me to reconcile with Him. Instead, He asks me to contemplate:
Where am I? Do I want to be found? Great Lent provides me with the opportunity to reach out to the One who can save me. Instead of reaching out for deadly forbidden fruit,
let me cling to His almighty and caring hand. (30)
Then follows a reflection from one of the Church Fathers, a brief stanza from a church service, and a short life of a saint. This pattern repeats from day-to-day and provides a comfortable structure to daily Lenten readings at home. The meditations and reflections on the reading are not
high theology. They are written by men who are clearly pastors, gently dealing with the messy business of repentance and transformation. Father Steven told us, his coauthors, to compose heartfelt, sincere meditations. He instructed us to reach deeply into ourselves to realize our own sins and shortcomings and to admit them openly. He hoped in this way each of our readers might see themselves in a similar light and would journey with us on a common Christian pilgrimage. (7)
Fr. Steven’s gracious spirit is reflected in the tone of the book and encapsulated in the epilogue, when his wife relates his last days with his battle with cancer. Only one thing made this final, severe cut bearable, he said:
“Because what I anticipate is being embraced by the Onewho has never hurt me, always did the best for me, and always loved me more than I deserve. That’s what I wait
for, so it’s okay.” (164)
the peacefulness of the Lenten season. It provides a set of
readings for each day—with a scripture reading, then a
meditation from that reading.
From the meditation for the Friday of the first week of
Lent:
I feel lost when I choose to do things I know are contrary to
His way. I feel lost when I willingly allow certain influences, rather than the Lord, to govern my life. I feel lost whenever I am satisfied to have a feeble, anemic relationship with God. “Where are you?” Today I am offered this question, just as God posed it to Adam and Eve, with His
same intention: love and concern for me. God actively and ceaselessly seeks me out, but He never attempts to force me to reconcile with Him. Instead, He asks me to contemplate:
Where am I? Do I want to be found? Great Lent provides me with the opportunity to reach out to the One who can save me. Instead of reaching out for deadly forbidden fruit,
let me cling to His almighty and caring hand. (30)
Then follows a reflection from one of the Church Fathers, a brief stanza from a church service, and a short life of a saint. This pattern repeats from day-to-day and provides a comfortable structure to daily Lenten readings at home. The meditations and reflections on the reading are not
high theology. They are written by men who are clearly pastors, gently dealing with the messy business of repentance and transformation. Father Steven told us, his coauthors, to compose heartfelt, sincere meditations. He instructed us to reach deeply into ourselves to realize our own sins and shortcomings and to admit them openly. He hoped in this way each of our readers might see themselves in a similar light and would journey with us on a common Christian pilgrimage. (7)
Fr. Steven’s gracious spirit is reflected in the tone of the book and encapsulated in the epilogue, when his wife relates his last days with his battle with cancer. Only one thing made this final, severe cut bearable, he said:
“Because what I anticipate is being embraced by the Onewho has never hurt me, always did the best for me, and always loved me more than I deserve. That’s what I wait
for, so it’s okay.” (164)
March 30, 2021
This devotional is a great little resource to be used during Great Lent. It’s very well structured and user-friendly. It starts with Clean Monday and ends on Palm Sunday. Each day is allotted specific Scripture readings, along with a meditation from Archpriest Belonick, Patristic bits of wisdom, a portion of a hymn, and a story of the life of a saint.
What I liked most about it was that the structure and writing was basic enough to where I wouldn’t get overwhelmed (I tend to set unrealistic reading expectations for myself during Great Lent), but also it provided enough depth through the various readings that it didn’t seem too simplistic or watered down.
The content is very family friendly and the book could be used as a read aloud in the mornings or evenings, depending on each family’s idiosyncrasies. Being the mother of a 5-year-old and a 16-month-old, I preferred to use the book early in the morning, when everyone is asleep, as part of my routine for Great Lent. Once the little one is a bit older, I will probably do read-aloud.
I especially liked Archpriest Belonick’s commentaries to the scriptures as they triggered a sort of introspection into my own mindset and overall mood when attempting to read the scriptures.
No matter how you use this book (whether you read the full chapter each day, or only parts of it, to yourself or to your little ones), it is a little treasure to be kept for future generations. Especially in today’s day and age, when everything seems so relative and ever-changing, this book will be a constant reminder of the Truth.
What I liked most about it was that the structure and writing was basic enough to where I wouldn’t get overwhelmed (I tend to set unrealistic reading expectations for myself during Great Lent), but also it provided enough depth through the various readings that it didn’t seem too simplistic or watered down.
The content is very family friendly and the book could be used as a read aloud in the mornings or evenings, depending on each family’s idiosyncrasies. Being the mother of a 5-year-old and a 16-month-old, I preferred to use the book early in the morning, when everyone is asleep, as part of my routine for Great Lent. Once the little one is a bit older, I will probably do read-aloud.
I especially liked Archpriest Belonick’s commentaries to the scriptures as they triggered a sort of introspection into my own mindset and overall mood when attempting to read the scriptures.
No matter how you use this book (whether you read the full chapter each day, or only parts of it, to yourself or to your little ones), it is a little treasure to be kept for future generations. Especially in today’s day and age, when everything seems so relative and ever-changing, this book will be a constant reminder of the Truth.
March 10, 2021
I’m really looking forward to using this devotional for Lent this year and for many years to come. Each day has which scriptures to read, a meditation from Archpriest Belonick, wisdom from the Fathers, a portion of a hymn, and a story of the life of a saint.
As a mother of elementary-aged children, I really appreciate having this book to read aloud from in the mornings. As beneficial as it is to read on my own, having all of this information organized by day helps me so much in prioritizing our family’s Lenten journey, especially during these uncertain months. Between work, homeschooling, and daily life, this book is such a blessing to me because all the organization has been done for me.
I really appreciate the meditations on the daily scriptures written by Archpriest Belonick. He explains his thoughts when reading the scriptures in a very honest and personal way that gently leads me to focus on God and not on myself. As a small aside, I also really like the title. I sometimes catch myself thinking, “Ugh, Lent is coming.” But no! Pascha is coming! Lent is the journey to get there and this title is a great reminder of that. I highly recommend using this book as an aid for anyone or for families during Lent!
As a mother of elementary-aged children, I really appreciate having this book to read aloud from in the mornings. As beneficial as it is to read on my own, having all of this information organized by day helps me so much in prioritizing our family’s Lenten journey, especially during these uncertain months. Between work, homeschooling, and daily life, this book is such a blessing to me because all the organization has been done for me.
I really appreciate the meditations on the daily scriptures written by Archpriest Belonick. He explains his thoughts when reading the scriptures in a very honest and personal way that gently leads me to focus on God and not on myself. As a small aside, I also really like the title. I sometimes catch myself thinking, “Ugh, Lent is coming.” But no! Pascha is coming! Lent is the journey to get there and this title is a great reminder of that. I highly recommend using this book as an aid for anyone or for families during Lent!
March 18, 2022
Pilgrimage to Pascha-A Daily Devotional for Great Lent By Archpriest Steven John Belonick with Michele Constable and Michael Soroka. Narrated by Kristina Wenger.
This audiobook is a must for Great Lent. Everyday of Lent a reference is listed for scripture, a meditation on the passage, advice from the Church Fathers, excerpts from a liturgical hymn, the life of a Saint, and a concluding prayer. Enough information to absorb easily and to reflect. And you will realize throughout the day that you are recalling and thinking about what you heard.
This audio book is narrated by Kristina Wenger, I was familiar with her as she also narrated another audio book that I enjoyed. She is an Orthodox Christian so she does not just read this book, she lives it daily and it is reflected in her voice. Each day is 2-3 pages and easily listened to in a car going to work or running daily errands.
I highly recommend this audiobook, not only for the content but also for the narrator. I enjoyed this audiobook so much that I bought the book. In my opinion, Pilgrimage to Pascha is an excellent daily devotional during Great Lent or anytime during the year.
I received this audiobook for an honest review.
This audiobook is a must for Great Lent. Everyday of Lent a reference is listed for scripture, a meditation on the passage, advice from the Church Fathers, excerpts from a liturgical hymn, the life of a Saint, and a concluding prayer. Enough information to absorb easily and to reflect. And you will realize throughout the day that you are recalling and thinking about what you heard.
This audio book is narrated by Kristina Wenger, I was familiar with her as she also narrated another audio book that I enjoyed. She is an Orthodox Christian so she does not just read this book, she lives it daily and it is reflected in her voice. Each day is 2-3 pages and easily listened to in a car going to work or running daily errands.
I highly recommend this audiobook, not only for the content but also for the narrator. I enjoyed this audiobook so much that I bought the book. In my opinion, Pilgrimage to Pascha is an excellent daily devotional during Great Lent or anytime during the year.
I received this audiobook for an honest review.
April 3, 2021
This book is an absolute treasure! It is a day-to-day devotional that is guided and organized by the readings of the Orthodox church during the Lenten season. Often, Lent can be a struggle for any individual, but Archpriest Belonick guides us on a journey of deep meditation in easy-to-understand bites that help focus our reflections during Pascha. I absolutely loved that he not only included his own beautiful examinations of the Bible readings, but also selected valuable selections from church fathers and other saints to help expand our understanding. Getting to read this book each morning is like escaping into an oasis, where I could both find a starting place for my prayers that day and simply enjoy my walk with the Lord. If you want to add something special to your Lenten canon this year, I highly recommend adding this to your home library!
March 23, 2022
Every year during Great Lent I pick a book to read. This year I was blessed by being asked to review the audio book Pilgrimage to Pascha. Archpriest Belonick, Michele Constable and Michael Soroka have given us a beautiful gift of a Daily Devotional for Great Lent. They break each week of Lent down by days, and within that week we are given a Meditation on the Scripture passage of the day, Font of Wisdom, Hymn for Vespers, a write up of a Church Saint life and a concluding prayer. Truly I now believe this little book will become one of my permanent reads for my future Lents. I have listened to the audiobook, which is just under four hours for this review and now own the Kindle version so I can continue to use it for my daily reading. I highly recommend this wonderful and insightful book for any orthodox Christian during our Pilgrimage to Pascha.
SbDn Constantine (Charlie)
SbDn Constantine (Charlie)
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March 30, 2021This book will become a favorite of many, I have no doubt. The author truly makes you feel like you are on a journey throughout Lent. This book helps you to not only love Lent, but helps you persevere through the trying times of the season. There is not quite another book like this on the market. A daily devotional specifically tailored towards Orthodox Christians that will dig deep into one’s soul and lead you straight to Christ.
April 30, 2021
This book renewed my spirit and soul during this recent period of Great Lent. Meditations, prayers, ancient hymns, and the lives of saints inspired me and helped me to draw closer to the Lord Jesus Christ, to strive to be a follower of Him, and to renew my commitment as an Orthodox Christian. Beautiful book.
April 23, 2021
I bought copies of this book for myself and our godparents as soon as Ancient Faith released the new edition. It has really been a blessing and will become a staple for each Great Lent from now on.
April 25, 2021
An excellent devotional that greatly enhanced my Lenten journey. Highly recommended for any Orthodox (and non-Orthodox) Christian seeking to deepen their understanding and struggle during Lent.
May 1, 2021
This was a great way to stay focused through Great Lent! I definitely gleaned new insights and feel I would again if I used it again next Lent.
March 30, 2024
Great Lenten devotional
April 27, 2024
Loved it! Perfect content and length. Truly helped me digest the scripture readings and I enjoyed the stories on the saints.
May 2, 2021
The best
This is the best Pasha book...or Orthodox book in general....that I have read. It won't just be read once or twice. It is full of compassion and wisdom.
This is the best Pasha book...or Orthodox book in general....that I have read. It won't just be read once or twice. It is full of compassion and wisdom.
April 23, 2023
Perfect Lent Companion
As a catechumen experiencing my first Lent, this devotional has been wonderful!
Each day has a devotional from one of the scripture readings, prayers, applicable quotes from a service and from saints, as well as a short biography of a saint. I will be reading this each Lent!
As a catechumen experiencing my first Lent, this devotional has been wonderful!
Each day has a devotional from one of the scripture readings, prayers, applicable quotes from a service and from saints, as well as a short biography of a saint. I will be reading this each Lent!
April 9, 2023
I loved it. I’ve now gifted 4 times. Exactly what I could handle for this season. Grateful for the meditations. Would absolutely recommend.
May 5, 2023
A beautiful little book of daily meditations for Great Lent for Orthodox Christians. I also read this last Lent and really appreciated it both years. The daily readings are short enough to be manageable even for a mom of a toddler and newborn.
May 27, 2022
Lovely devotional with meditations on the daily scriptures, wisdom of the Saints and lives of the Saints. I anticipate this will be a annual read. Truly a gift during the Lenten fast.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews