Monasticism is not a human invention, according to Saint Sophronie Saharov, but rather a spiritual donation on the part of God to those seeking spiritual perfection. As our Lord Jesus Christ suffered “outside the gate” so that he might sanctify the people by His own Holy blood,” in order to return the humble gratitude to his Lord, the monk “goes to Him outside the camp” of this world. It is through such exit that he sets himself free from numerous other life concerns and dedicates himself to the fulfillment of God’s commandments turning his Monastery into a place of generous thankfulness and conscious repentance modeled upon the very essence of monastic living defined as “angelic state”. His whole life takes on an eschatological character in anticipation of Him that came and shall come again to reign over the centuries.
Monastic life is enriched, vitalized, sanctified and thus revolves around the worshiping and sacramental life of the Church, praying through the invocation to the Holy name of Jesus Christ and studying God’s Word.
Regular participation in the sacred mysteries (sacraments) of Confession and Holy Communion is of the utmost importance throughout the lives of the monastic community. Also, the continuous invocation “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me”, accompanied with the struggle for the observance of the evangelic commands, keeps the monk in the living and healing presence of God. Performed with care and humbleness, it gradually cleanses, enlightens, and sanctifies him.