After doing a bit of reading, it seems most of the Greek Orthodox folks out there are questioning the monastic practices of Father Ephraim. It was his monastery in Arizona that I visited. Although I found the experience fascinating, I find myself wondering about the so-called "cult" and the richness of the environment.

My spiritual beliefs are my own and I am not easily influenced by others but I must say that my logic was suspended for a brief moment in time. I hope that Ephraim's monasteries will be investigated further. He is either a great spiritual leader or a cult master of the first degree.

I am happy, however, to have been introduced to Orthodox Christianity and to the information I have rcvd. as a result of my queries here. Thanks again,

d