With the arrival of the Venerable Hieromonk Maksim (Ilic) from the Diocese of Zvornik-Tuzla, who has been appointed by His Grace Bishop Irinej as the Spiritual Elder of New Marcha Monastery of the Holy Archangel Gabriel, the monastery has once again become a true spiritual oasis for the faithful of the Cleveland Deanery.

 

The monastery church is gratefully filled with worshippers young and old. Following Sunday and Festal Divine Liturgies, there is an Agape Meal, the preparation of which is overseen by Sister Anastasia. Fr Maksim uses this time spent together at a common meal, as is a monastery tradition, to discuss spirituality with the faithful. Even the children are treated to watching educational Biblical films.

 

It has long been stated that if a monastery is built in anticipation of monastics, it will never be filled nor will it ever truly survive as a monastic community. However, if a monastery is built around a monastic or monastics, then it will, indeed, not only survive, but prosper as well. And so, it is with New Marcha Monastery. Thank God for all and in all!

 

As Philip said to Nathanael, “Come and see” (Jn 1:46).