a photographic pilgrimage to Orthodox Christian monasteries across the continent
Third and concluding part from the journal, Orthodox America. Part 1 | Part 2 The Monastic Rule The Rule or "Typicon" governing Orthodox monastic life is based upon that of St. Basil the Great (d. 379), which he synthesized from the tradition of the early Desert Fathers. This Rule was later adapted by various great fathers of monasticism …
Continue reading An Outline of Orthodox Monasticism – Part 3
"Orphaned at an early age," this great saint "was raised by a certain good and pious nun." He "imitated his adoptive mother in the habits of monastic life, in fasting and in prayer," and grew to be a shepherd of souls, founding a monastery which thrives to this day, over a millennium later. From this …
Continue reading Ven. Athanasius, Founder of Coenobitic Monasticism on Mt. Athos
Part 2 of a three-part series from the journal, Orthodox America. Part 1 | Part 3 Where do Orthodox Monks and Nuns Come From? Orthodox monks and nuns come from all walks and manner of life. In former times the greater number were of peasant stock, but at the same time many a great name lay …
Continue reading An Outline of Orthodox Monasticism – Part 2
Part 1 of a three-part series from the journal, Orthodox America. Part 2 | Part 3 "If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hadst, and give to the poor, and come, follow Me" (Matt. 19:21). From the beginning these words of Christ have been a clear call to all Christian monks that they …
Continue reading The Angelic Path – An Outline of Orthodox Monasticism
Children love pilgrimages to Orthodox Christian monasteries, as any Orthodox parent who has taken their kids to one can tell you. These books help reveal why. Maybe it's the total simplicity, beauty and peacefulness of the surroundings, or perhaps it is because the nuns or monks themselves have a child-like quality about them which allows …
Continue reading Children and Monasticism: Ideas for Summer reading (and pilgrimages!)
The North American Thebaid 