Orthodox monasticism is the tradition of living out Christ's Gospel in the fulness of body and spirit. Arising in its earliest days, monasticism is an ongoing part of the life of the Church.

In this area are gathered various studies on monastic history and practice in the Orthodox tradition.

The origins and motivations of monasticism

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A study focusing on the interrelationship of asceticism and monasticism, and exploring the origins of the monastic 'movement' in the Church.

A Gospel motivation for the monastic life

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A study on the foundation of monasticism as a radical adherence to the Gospel commands towards self-sacrifice and obedience.

Ex Oriente Lux: John Cassian on eastern monasticism in the west

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This brief study looks at St John's exposure to fledgling Egyptian desert monasticism, and the manner in which he brought it westward through Gaul.

Aphrahat Demonstration Six and the Liber Graduum: Two models of early Mesopotamian proto-monasticism

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This study explores two types of early Syrian monastic life, grounded in the writings of Aphrahat the Persian.

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