A Special Episode On the occasion of the International Day of Human Fraternity

Produced By MECC

What Is the Triodion Period?

His Beatitude Patriarch John X: The soul’s garment is humility… Great Lent is the Spring of souls yearning for the radiance of Christ

Media of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC)

“Lord, I have cried out on to Thee,” ... “Let us all make haste to humble the flesh by abstinence, as we set out upon the divine and unblemished Fast...” “I beseech Thee: cleanse me in the waters of repentance, and through prayer and fasting make me radiant…” with these hymns, the Orthodox Church prepare on the eve of the Vespers of Forgiveness Sunday for the journey, a fasting journey towards the Resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Believers prepare for this journey with reverence to achieve one goal, a complete communion with God in body and soul, in word and deed. Fasting, the first commandment of our Lord Jesus, is the second phase of the Triodion period at the Orthodox Church, a time of returning to God.

What Is the Importance of Its Message?

The world celebrates the "International Day of Human Fraternity" on February 4 of each year, as adopted by the United Nations General Assembly. A day that reminds us of the importance of living in peace and love among all the inhabitants of the earth. Hence, this report sheds light on the most important meanings that this day carries, emphasizing the need for solidarity, cooperation and unity.

February 4th, International Day of Human Fraternity!

What Are Its Origins?

Media of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC)

Since 2020, February 4th is no longer just another day, now it represents an international call to end violence and hatred hostile speeches… it is now a day that reminds us of our fraternity no matter our nationality, ethnicity, society or religion… it is an invitation to work towards peace, justice and stability… hoping to live the rest of our days by the command of Jesus Christ “Love one another as I have loved you” (John 34: 13).

The Middle East is the victim of divisions, conflicts and war nowadays ravaging every single one of his countries. The region is in desperate need of promoting dialogue and deepen fraternity relationships among people, from leaders to officials and citizens.

4 February