If you’re curious about the special services, themes, and preparations leading up to the holiest season of the year, you’re in the right place. Stick around to learn all about the “Triodion” period and how it helps Orthodox Christians begin the journey toward Pascha with hope and true repentance.
In this post, I want to share the basics of the Lenten Triodion—the special liturgical book that guides Orthodox Christians through the pre-Lenten period and then continues into Holy Week. We’ll explore why this time is such a perfect place in the calendar for self-reflection, how each Sunday carries a special theme, and even offer practical tips for Meatfare Sunday and Cheesefare Sunday. Let’s dive in together and make this journey toward the commencement of Great Lent a meaningful experience.
📖 What Is the Meaning of Triodion?
The word Triodion refers to the hymns and prayers that have “three odes”—or simply, three sections. This great book contains services of the Church meant for the beginning of a time of preparation leading up to Clean Monday, the official start of Great Lent. It helps us move from normal routines toward deeper prayer, fasting, and reflection in the context of the current world.
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🕊️ What Is the Triodion Period Orthodox?
Think of the Triodion period as the Church’s warm-up for Great Lent. It lasts about three weeks and includes specific Sunday themes (like the Publican and the Pharisee, the Prodigal Son, Meatfare, and Cheesefare). During this time, we begin using special hymns from the Triodion book, but more importantly, we start shifting our everyday routines: maybe praying a bit more, looking for ways to help others, and gently preparing our diet for the upcoming fast. Essentially, it’s a chance to ease into Lent without feeling overwhelmed—both spiritually and practically.
⛪ The Four Key Sundays Before Great Lent
1. Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee
What is the Sunday of the Pharisee and the publican?
On the first Sunday of a three-week period, the Church highlights the Sunday of the Publican and the Pharisee. We learn from the parable that true humility—crying out “O God, be merciful to me a sinner!”—brings us closer to our Heavenly Father.
Jesus tells the story of two men praying in the Temple. A Pharisee (a devout Jewish teacher) proudly lists all his religious achievements, looking down on others. A tax collector (a publican), who is generally despised by society for collaborating with the Roman government, stands at a distance. He doesn’t brag; instead, he begs God for mercy, admitting his sins. Jesus ends by saying that the tax collector, not the Pharisee, goes home justified before God.
Why It Matters
What is the meaning of the publican and the Pharisee?
- An Invitation to Change: The parable tells us that no matter who we are or what we’ve done, if we come to God with humility, He will hear us.
- Humility vs. Pride: God values genuine repentance and humility more than self-righteousness or showy displays of piety.
- Openness to God’s Mercy: Recognizing our faults allows us to receive God’s grace more fully.
Actions for the Week
Actions for the Week
- Pause Before Judgment: If you catch yourself criticizing someone, stop and remember: we all need God’s mercy.
- Morning Prayer: Start each day by quietly saying, “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.”
- Secret Acts of Kindness: Help someone in need (carry groceries, rake leaves, etc.) without telling anyone. This trains us to serve for God’s sake, not for praise.
2. Sunday of the Prodigal Son
What is the Sunday of the Prodigal Son?
The second Sunday of a three-week period features the parable of the Prodigal Son. We watch the younger son leave home, waste his inheritance, and return broken—only to be welcomed by his compassionate father. This theme of this Sunday reminds us that no matter how far we stray, our Heavenly Father is always ready to forgive.
Jesus recounts how a younger son demands his inheritance and leaves home, squandering everything on reckless living. When a famine strikes and he’s left feeding pigs—an unclean animal in his culture—he finally realizes his mistake. He returns to his father, ready to beg for a servant’s role, but his father runs out to meet him with open arms, celebrating his return. The older brother becomes resentful, feeling overlooked despite his loyalty.
Why It Matters
What does the parable of the prodigal son teach us?
- Beware of Jealousy: The older brother’s reaction warns us not to resent God’s mercy toward others.
- God’s Unconditional Love: The father in the story represents God, who is always ready to embrace us, no matter how far we’ve strayed.
- Repentance and Hope: The younger son shows that it’s never too late to turn back to God.
Actions for the Week
Actions for the Week
- Daily Gratitude: Each night, list three things (big or small) you’re thankful for, reminding yourself of God’s ongoing love.
- Schedule Confession: Or at least spend quiet time each day asking God for forgiveness and guidance.
- Reconcile with Someone: If you’re holding a grudge, take the first step to make peace—send a message or say a simple “I’m sorry.”
3. Sunday of the Last Judgment (Meatfare Sunday)
What is the Sunday of the final Judgement?
The third Sunday of a three-week period—also called Meatfare Sunday—focuses on the Sunday of the Last Judgment, reminding us that there will be a future judgment of all persons before the throne of God. This is the last day to eat meat before Lent officially begins.
Christ describes a future scene where He separates people into two groups, like a shepherd dividing sheep from goats. To those on His right (the “sheep”), He says they fed the hungry, clothed the naked, and visited the sick—actions that were effectively done for Him. Those on His left (the “goats”) failed to show such compassion. This emphasizes that how we treat others is how we treat the Lord.
Why It Matters
Why It Matters
- Preparing for Great Lent: Meatfare Sunday traditionally marks the last day for eating meat before the fast begins, nudging us to start focusing on acts of mercy and simpler living.
- Love in Action: Faith isn’t just about believing but also about doing good for those in need.
- Eternal Perspective: The choices we make—helping or ignoring others—have lasting consequences.
Actions for the Week
Actions for the Week
- Pray Facing East: As a tangible reminder that Christ will come again, set aside a brief moment each day to pray facing east, acknowledging the hope of His return.
- Perform an Act of Service: Volunteer at a soup kitchen, donate to a local shelter, or check in on an elderly neighbor.
- Transition Your Diet: If you haven’t already, use up or freeze leftover meat.
4. Forgiveness Sunday (Cheesefare Sunday)
What is Forgiveness Sunday in the Orthodox Church?
The last Sunday before Lent starts is known as Sunday of Forgiveness or Cheesefare Sunday. It commemorates Adam and Eve being cast out of Paradise, pointing us to the heartbreak of sin and the meaning of the Great Fast: returning to a right relationship with God.
Here, Jesus instructs us to forgive others if we expect God to forgive us. He also warns against fasting just to look holy in front of people. Instead, we should quietly direct our efforts toward pleasing God. This Sunday is called “Cheesefare” because it’s the final day to consume dairy before Great Lent begins.
Why It Matters
What is Forgiveness Sunday in the Orthodox Church?
- Spiritual Preparation: By dropping grudges and simplifying our diets, we clear the path for a deeper experience of Lent.
- Centrality of Forgiveness: We can’t approach God sincerely if we refuse to forgive those who have hurt us.
- Authentic Worship: True fasting isn’t about impressing others; it’s about humbling ourselves before God.
Actions for the Week
What is the Forgiveness Sunday tradition?
- Simplify Your Heart: Reflect on areas where pride or resentment may linger and commit them to God’s care.
- Ask for and Offer Forgiveness: Each evening, gather as a family or with friends and say, “Please forgive me if I have hurt or offended you today.”
- Use or Freeze Dairy: This is your final reminder to plan meals so that you can fully embrace the upcoming fast.
🍖🧀 Practical Tips for Meatfare and Cheesefare
As we approach Meatfare Sunday (The Last Judgment) and Cheesefare Sunday (Forgiveness), the Church calls us to prepare for Lent by being mindful of how we use our resources, show mercy to others, and practice reconciliation. Below are some down-to-earth suggestions for using, storing, or sharing leftover meats and dairy—so we can reduce waste and extend compassion in very tangible ways.
1. Meatfare Sunday (The Last Judgment)
Jesus teaches that when we feed the hungry, we feed Him. So think about how to use or share meat in ways that show care for others.
Cook Up Big Batches and Freeze
- Stews & Chilies: Make a large pot of beef or chicken stew, then freeze in individual containers for quick meals after Lent.
- BBQ Pulled Pork or Chicken: Slow-cook the meat with barbecue sauce, shred, and freeze in freezer bags. This makes for an easy sandwich filling later.
- Label & Portion: Divide meat into meal-sized portions, place in airtight containers or freezer bags, and label with the date. (Most meats are best used within 2-3 months.)
Donate or Share
- Unopened Packages: If you have excess meat that you realistically won’t use, consider giving it to a local food bank (call ahead to check donation rules).
- Neighborhood Potluck: Invite neighbors or friends for a “farewell to meat” meal. Share the story of Meatfare Sunday’s focus on helping “the least of these,” and encourage guests to bring sides or desserts.
Optional Transition Meals
- While fasting hasn’t officially started, some people begin lighter, veggie-based dishes now. You might try half-meat, half-veggie options—like mixing mushrooms with ground beef—to gently adjust your palate and reduce waste at the same time.
Cheesefare Sunday (Forgiveness Sunday)
Christ emphasizes forgiveness and a humble approach to fasting. As we use up dairy, let’s also remember to forgive and mend broken relationships.
Get Creative with Dairy
- Cheese Fondue: Gather family or friends for a cozy fondue night, using up various cheeses. Fondue is naturally a communal meal—perfect for practicing fellowship and forgiveness.
- Mac & Cheese or Lasagna: Both are great ways to use leftover cheeses and sauces. Freeze extra servings for easy lunches.
Freeze Dairy Properly
- Shred and Store: Hard cheeses (like cheddar) can be grated and packed into small freezer bags. They’ll keep well for a few months and can be used in soups or casseroles later.
- Milk & Cream: Pour leftover milk or cream into ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer cubes into freezer bags for future sauces or soups.
Share with Those in Need
- Food Bank Donations: Some organizations will accept unopened dairy products if they’re within the sell-by date—always call ahead first.
- Community Meal: Cook a meal together, inviting someone you need to reconcile with. Sharing a Cheesefare dish can be a symbolic way of seeking peace and unity before Lent.
By carefully storing your meats and dairy (or distributing them to those who can use them), you’ll follow the spirit of these Sundays—honoring Christ’s call to love and forgive, while responsibly stewarding the gifts God has given. These practical steps not only help you transition into Lent but also encourage generosity, gratitude, and reconciliation in everyday life.
✝️ Bridging to Holy Week
After Cheesefare Sunday, we move into Clean Monday, marking the official commencement of Great Lent. Over the next several weeks, we’ll participate in special services, such as the Akathist Hymn and the Great Canon of St. Andrew of Crete (often highlighted in the fourth Sunday or fifth week). Ultimately, we arrive at Palm Sunday, Holy Week, Holy Saturday, and then the radiant joy of Pascha. Each step reminds us of the gospel of Christ, His victory over death, and our calling to become offering participants in His love.
✨ Final Take Away
The period of the Triodion may sound complicated, but it’s truly a beautiful pre-Lenten period that allows us to explore humility (through the Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee), discover mercy (in the parable of the Prodigal Son), remember the future judgment of all persons (on Meatfare Sunday), and learn forgiveness (on Cheesefare Sunday). Each of these Sundays leads us into the meaning of the Great Fast, paving the way for the solemnity of Holy Week, and the incomparable joy of Pascha.
We’re all on this journey together, following the commandment of Christ to grow closer to Him. Let’s make the Triodion weeks a heartfelt preparation for Clean Monday, Pascha, and beyond!
Leave a comment below with your thoughts or tips on observing Meatfare or Cheesefare. I’d love to hear how you and your family navigate this special time. May the Holy Spirit guide us all toward a blessed and fruitful Lent!
To find out more about the Triodion period, watch the video below:
❓Frequently Asked Questions
Great Lent lasts for 40 days, starting on Clean Monday and ending on Lazarus Saturday. Immediately after, we celebrate Palm Sunday and then enter Holy Week, culminating in Pascha (Easter). Altogether, it’s roughly seven weeks of increased prayer, fasting, and worship.
Traditional guidelines include fasting from meat, dairy, eggs, and sometimes fish, wine, and oil—though these rules can vary by parish or personal circumstance. Beyond dietary fasting, the Church encourages extra prayer, almsgiving, and attendance at Lenten services, seeking both a humble heart and renewed focus on God.
While practices differ slightly across jurisdictions, a common approach identifies the following Sundays in the Lenten journey and immediately beyond:
Sunday of Orthodoxy
Sunday of St. Gregory Palamas
Sunday of the Holy Cross
Sunday of St. John Climacus
Sunday of St. Mary of Egypt
Lazarus Saturday & Palm Sunday (weekend celebration)
Holy Pascha (Easter Sunday)
Thomas Sunday (the Sunday after Pascha)
Many Orthodox Christians follow the Church’s daily readings, featuring passages from Genesis, Isaiah, and Proverbs during weekday services. On Sundays, the Gospels and Epistles focus on repentance and God’s mercy. Meditating on the Psalms is also highly recommended for personal prayer throughout Lent.
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