O Almighty God, help me to enter this season of the Great Fast in the spirit of joy, giving myself to spiritual growth by cleansing my soul and body and controlling my passions as I limit my food. Help me to live on the virtues of the Holy Spirit. Help me to persevere in my longing for Jesus, the Christ, so as to be worthy to behold His most solemn Passion and the most holy Passover, rejoicing all the while with spiritual joy. As I request Your help, O God, I offer my praise to You, Who I know to be Father, Son and Holy Spirit, not only now but forever and ever. Amen.