The Orthodox Church honors the Third Person of the Holy Trinity, the Holy Spirit, today on Monday of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is described in the Credo as the “Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father, who with the Father and the Son is adored and glorified.”
The Holy Trinity consists of three Persons: The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit, who eternally proceeds from the Father, descended to the world on the day of Pentecost. The three Persons of the Holy Trinity are united indivisibly and without confusion, and are all equally worthy of worship.
St. John Chrysostom emphasized the surpassing nature of the gifts of the Holy Spirit, calling for rejoicing and worship. This day marks the fulfillment of the Lord’s promises, as through the power of the Holy Spirit, sin is washed away and souls are purified, transforming believers into angelic beings while maintaining their human nature.
This week is dedicated to the Holy Spirit, prompting a suspension of fasting on Wednesday and Friday. Fasting is not an end in itself, but a means to live an ascetic life, exercise self-restraint, and contemplate the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
Source: Church of Cyprus