El Greko,

Your comments on dianavan's questions were excellent. I might wish to offer a few more to express what I know about monasticism, and especially the Athonite tradition that Father Ephraim has made in America so that Dianavan might have a better understanding of Orthodox Monasticism.


The break with the family is often required for the spiritual betterment of the monk. We do not have this teaching for "brainwashing" the candidates. Rather, all of the connections must be severed from the outside world to become more Christlike, so that in loving Christ perfectly (as there are no outside concerns), maybe we can love others perfectly too. Orthodox do not make this up, it comes to us from the Holy Gospel. "He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it." Matthew 10:37-39.

In regards to father Ephraim, I find it important to explain what a spiritual father is to those in Orthodoxy. According to the traditions of Orthodoxy, explained very well by Archbishop Puhalo "the office of geronta or elder is an important and firmly established aspect of our Orthodox Christian life. It is very good to have somebody who has experience and knowledge that we can talk to and seek guidance from. The true "geronta," the true elder, like a trained physician, helps lead us to the healing grace of the Holy Spirit, comforting us, correcting us and strengthening us in our struggle. "

I must say that there are a very small minority who develop superstitions about the elder, and then develop a crippling dependency on him, which a true and divinely inspired elder would never, ever permit. From all that I know about Elder Ephraim, he is a devout man who loves the Orthodox Church and knows very well the spiritual implications of his guidance. I am sure that he has troubled spiritual children, but should not be judged on some over-devotion to his persona.

Dianavan, I hope that this might help you. May God bless you as you seek to understand the beauty of Holy Orthodoxy. Know that I pray for you, and all those on this forum, in their spiritual journeys.

brothers and sisters, forgive me,

emmanuel