Beginnings at Holy Archangels Greek Orthodox Monastery
?Evlogite.?
You are blessed. The words of the traditional monastic greeting echo in my ears as I slowly make my way up the windy, rocky, pothole-damaged road that is Twin Sisters. My pulse quickens in anticipation as I get closer to that haven of holiness ? Holy Archangels ? where peace, calm, and quiet emanate.
Nestled in the hill country, surrounded by peaks and valleys, up a hill I have climbed many times ? out of the depths of chaos into the pinnacle of sanctuary ? lies my oasis. I go there for renewal, spiritual rebirth. There I am reminded that God is good, and the world is not as bad as it seems.
With my head covered, I enter the gate where miracles have occurred, and I make the sign of the cross. I am on holy ground. To the left is the church. I stand in awe of its magnificence and beauty. The bell tower ? the dome ? the sheer size of it all. And that doesn?t compare to what lies inside.
?Evlogite.?
?O Kyrios.?
I receive a blessing from the abbot and reverently enter the chapel. It is time for Vespers ? sunset ? the beginning of a new day.
I close my eyes to allow myself to be overwhelmed by the Greek chanting. The voices of the monks soothe my soul, even though I do not understand the words. I am not aware of anyone else around me. My mind and soul are elevated to a place of perfect peace and stillness as I allow myself to lower the walls that are usually so high and guarded, and I get a glimpse of the unconditional love and mercy that engulfs me.
I first entered this chapel four years ago, on the day of my baptism. On that day I was told I would never be as pure as I was at that moment. It was a new life? a new beginning? a new direction. I came to the monastery not knowing the first thing about it. But I immediately fell in love with it. I would return countless times.
I was then and continue to be captivated by the life of simplicity and purity ? the ?angelic? life ? struggling day after day with only one focus, one purpose ? salvation. When asked what it is monks do all day at a monastery, a simple elder replied, ?We fall down and we get up; we fall down and we get up.? There are no concerns for money, recognition, appearance, or any of the concerns of this world. That is all meaningless and distracting, and ultimately detrimental. Here no one owns anything and all are dressed alike ? completely covered head to toe in the black garments that are a reminder of death to this world. Here hospitality is shown to all who come, as well as love and respect for all creation.
It is in the tranquility of this sanctuary that I am able to clear my mind, refocus. Suddenly the stress of work, the agony of family squabbles, the scar of betrayal, and the fear of tomorrow all seem so miniscule. A new spirit emerges from the wreckage like a snake shedding its worn skin. It is a new day ? and nothing seems insurmountable.
I open my eyes to gaze upon the beautiful icon of the Theotokos ? the Mother of God ? the light of candles lit with fervent prayers illuminating her face. Her eyes are filled with sorrow for man, but in her hands she holds the One Hope.
God is good. And faithful. And loving. And merciful.
Evlogite. I am blessed. And I will make it.
Kyrie Eleison.
Lord have mercy.
Tyler Woods
Bush MS
English 8
June 27, 2002