Metropolitan Joanikije of the Montenegrin-Littoral Orthodox Church has emphasized the essential unity of fasting, prayer, and repentance in a Christian’s spiritual life. In an interview on the Serbian Orthodox Church’s television program “Vrlinoslov,” he asserted that fasting alone is meaningless without internal transformation.

The archbishop stated that church tradition has always highlighted the inseparability of fasting and prayer. He cautioned, “Fasting by itself—without prayer, repentance, and good deeds—can yield no fruit. If taken literally, it may even cause harm if devoid of spiritual content.” He explained that physical fasting serves as preparation for spiritual fasting, reminding believers that Lent calls for both dietary restrictions and internal purification.

“It is crucial to learn spiritual fasting—abstaining from hatred, evil deeds, grudges, and bad habits. Fasting should assist a person in transforming their life for the better,” he noted.

Metropolitan Joanikije highlighted that the combination of fasting and prayer leads to profound personal transformation. Physical fasting can curb passions and cleanse human nature, while prayer, according to him, purifies the soul, enlightens thoughts, and “nobles the heart.”

Regarding repentance and confession, the archbishop stressed that confessions offer no spiritual benefit without sincere contrition. “A person may be a great sinner, but if they genuinely repent, the gates of heaven are already open to them,” he affirmed, adding that repentance must be accompanied by real life changes.

He pointed out that combating sin requires prolonged spiritual labor and is impossible without divine assistance. Thus, the significance of church services and participation in the sacraments cannot be overstated, as these are the channels through which “God’s grace acts,” as described by the metropolitan.

In closing, Metropolitan Joanikije reminded that Lent serves as preparation for the most important Christian celebration—Easter. He explained that the essence of fasting lies not in mere restrictions, but in a spiritual journey aimed at experiencing Christ’s victory over death.