An Acceptable Fast

Let us keep an acceptable fast that will please the Lord. A true fast means estrangement from evils, abstinance from anger, control of the tongue, giving up the passions, insults, lies, and swearing. To be deprived of all these is a true and acceptable fast. (Stichera from the Presanctified Liturgy, Tone 3)

Come, O faithful, let us eagerly take up the strong shield of the fast to deflect the enemy's every evil scheme. Let us not be enticed by passionate pleasures nor fear the fires of temptations; for through them Christ the lover of us all will reward us with crowns for our perserverance. Then let us pray with boldness; let us fall down before Him and cry out, begging peace for our souls and great mercy. (Stichera from the Presanctified Liturgy, Tone 5)

The Metropolitan Cantor Institute of the Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh, 2007

http://metropolitancantorinstitute.org/sheetmusic/general/PresanctifiedGifts.pdf

Prayer

We beseech Thee, O Lord, that our earnest devotion may become fruitful through Thy grace; for then shall our fast be profitable to us, if it is well-pleasing to Thy loving kindness; through jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.