On February 23, the Orthodox Church celebrates Clean Monday, which signifies the beginning of Great Lent. This day is regarded as a time for spiritual renewal, reflection, and fasting, emphasizing not only dietary abstinence but also the internal purification of the heart. The faithful are encouraged to enter Lent with a mindset of repentance, forgiveness, and humility, letting go of past grievances and passions in preparation for the Paschal promise.

Clean Monday serves as a call for believers to embark on a transformative spiritual journey in the lead-up to Easter, a journey that requires a conscious decision to change one's heart and actions. The importance of this day is further highlighted by the church's emphasis on the values of humility and repentance, which are seen as essential for deepening one’s faith and relationship with God during the Lenten season.

On the same day, the church honors Saint Polycarp, Bishop of Smyrna and martyr, a key figure from the apostolic age who serves as an influential bridge between the Apostles and later generations of the Church. His steadfast faith is famously depicted in his response to those who urged him to renounce Christ, showcasing the strength of his convictions even in the face of death, which continues to inspire the faithful during this significant Lenten period.