Our Lenten observance will begin with the celebration of the Vespers of Forgiveness today following the dismissal of the Holy Liturgy. This important service is the signal that the Lenten struggle has begun. The climax of the service is the Rite of Mutual Forgiveness which takes place at the end of vespers. In this rite, the priest asks forgiveness of each person individually and then each person attending the service asks forgiveness of the other until everyone has forgiven each person everything. It is only then that we can begin our Lenten journey–only after we have forgiven. Please make it a point to start your Lenten observance by attending this moving and most beautiful service.