St John the Baptist Monastery, Essex [Archive] - Monachos.net Discussion Community

Alex Haig

14-05-2006, 05:15 PM

Public transport is difficult, best to get the train from London Liverpool Street to Kelvedon (trains are quite frequent) and then a taxi the rest of the way (most taxi drivers know it simply as "The Monastery"). Train journey 40 mins (approx.) and costs £10 (approx.), taxi will be about £10 too.

For driving instructions, look at an online route planner (eg the AA (http://www.theaa.com/travelwatch/planner_main.jsp)) but basically go along the A12 away from London (towards Chelmsford, Colchester) and take the Kelvedon exit. Then follow signs to Tiptree, through Tiptree, following signs to Tolleshunt Knights and Tolleshunt D'Arcy. When you're in Tolleshunt Knights (the village), there's a turning on the right on a sharp (left-handed) bend with a small sign saying 'Monastery'. The Monastery's a little way down the road (when the road forks, go left, do NOT go down 'Blind Lane') - you'll know it when you see it. Parking's beyond the main monastery buildings, on the right.

Hope this helps.

With love in the Risen Christ

Alex

Marinaki

17-05-2006, 02:05 PM

I travel to the monastery by train all the time - although it can be expensive.
It's better to get off at Witham - even though this is farther away and a few quid extra on the cab fare. There are four trains an hour to Witham and just one an hour to Kelvedon. However, there are always cabs waiting outside the station at Witham, and there is a minicab office just across the road from Witham station. Kelvedon station is a bit isolated - and the cabs aren't always there. However, if you intend to cycle (also do-able) consider Kelvedon.
There is also an intermittent bus from Kelvedon that passes by the road at the back of the monastery, but you really have to intergrate bus and train times for this. If you call the monastery they should be able to provide you with any cab numbers and possibly tell you about the bus. Sometimes I call the cab company from my mobile as I'm getting on the train - and they usually know when the train will arrive and can meet you there.
I'm also generally lucky in that I usually get offered a lift to the station by someone visiting and sometimes get a lift back all the way to London.

Denise King

25-08-2006, 11:47 AM

What is the best London airport to fly to to reach the monastery? Does the nuns' monastery accept guests for a few days? Whom should I contact to arrange a visit?

Fr Seraphim (Black)

25-08-2006, 12:55 PM

Yes, of course, anyone may visit and stay, Orthodox or not, though Sacramental participation in the life of the Community will depend naturally on being Orthodox.

The best is to write to Sister Paula, who has managed the female guests for years.

Either Heathrow or Gatwick are the same. Heathrow is a bit quicker, being closer to Liverpool Street Station, though I usually find less expensive flights landing at Gatwick. There are trains every 15 minutes or so from Gatwick to Victoria, costing (last autumn, 13 Pounds Sterling).

From Victoria, (get a London Underground Tube Map) and proceed to Liverpool Street Station. Here trains run every half hour or so to Witham, Essex. Depart at Witham, and quite often the nuns will be waiting for you at Witham, if you have made proper arrangements, or you can take a taxi to the Monastery.

I agree with the Post above not to descend at Kelvedon, unless you are very familiar with the area and know how to proceed from there.

Thus, both Heathrow and Gatwick are relatively equal, depending on flight costs, and the contact is Sister Paula.

May our Lord bless your pilgrimage.

What is the best London airport to fly to to reach the monastery? Does the nuns' monastery accept guests for a few days? Whom should I contact to arrange a visit?

Raouf

25-08-2006, 06:03 PM

I don't mean to change the subject but in reference to this monastery I greatly benefited from the talks of Archimandrite Zacharias Zacharou available from Orthodoxy Christian Cassettes. One can tell that he is a deeply humble man.

I wonder if anyone can recommend any other talks or books available by him?

Thank you.

In Christ,
Raouf

Fr Seraphim (Black)

25-08-2006, 10:32 PM

So far his only published work, (an expansion of his doctoral thesis, 'The Actualisation of the Hypostatic Principle in the Theology of Archimandrite Sophrony' submitted at the Faculty of Theology, University of Thessalonica, in 1998) is: "Christ, Our Way and Our Life, a Presentation of the Theology of Archimandrite Sophrony"

It is published by Saint Tikhon's Seminary Press (ISBN: 1-878997-74-2).

It is a wonderful book, which I cannot over-recommend.

More recommendable is to see Father Zacharias and hear him speak.

In America, Saint Tikhon's often invites him. One can check through Professor Christopher Veniamin, for any possible up-coming schedule.

Those living in Cyprus are blessed to see more of him, as it is his homeland. He is often in Greece also.

Those very blessed to live in Great Britain only need to hop on a train.

Not only his thorough grasp of theology, deep love of his Elder, Father Sophrony and talks are exhilarating, his deep and wonderful humour is to be highly valued.

Marinaki

26-08-2006, 01:34 PM

From Germany you can get a cheap Ryanair flight (if you don't mind the environmental damage) to Stansted and it is a 20 min Taxi ride from there (it will cost about 40 pounds for the taxi). What you save on the fair you pay that way. However, given rail costs - especially from Heathrow Express to Paddington etc. It is certainly an option worth considering. If you speak with Sr. Pavla she can best advise you.

Andreea

20-10-2006, 03:47 PM

I would like to go to St. John's monastery and stay a week or two, but, as far as I've understood, I have to make an appointment before, since there are so many requests for staying there. Would they receive me? Whom should I talk with and is it any phone number of the MonasterY?

Thank you and God bless you with joy!
Andreea

Fr Seraphim (Black)

20-10-2006, 06:16 PM

Dear Andreea,

The telephone number is: 44-1621-81 64 71

The address as listed above is: The Monastery of Saint John the Baptist, Tolleshunt Knights by Maldon, Essex, CM9 8EZ, United Kingdom

For female guests, if you phone ask for Sister Paula. If you write, address the letter to Sister Paula.

Male guests should write Father Symeon, it is preferable not to phone him, as he is quite difficult to track down!

The Monastery is normally closed for the entire month of November, though there are exceptions.

Of course they will receive you!

May God bless your pilgrimage.

Kris

20-10-2006, 10:40 PM

For those who wish to contact the Monastery, here's the phone number; though I'm not sure its correct.
+44 (0)1621 816 471

Andreas Moran

21-10-2006, 12:12 AM

Those planning to visit the monastery in Essex should also be aware (if they are not already) that the normal cycle of daily services is not observed. The Divine Liturgy is celebrated normally on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. It is in English on weekdays and Saturdays. On Sunday there are normally two liturgies, the first mostly in Slavonic and the second in Greek and English. Monday to Friday, the Jesus Prayer is said for two hours, 6-8am in the morning (except Tuesdays and Thursdays) and in the evening, 5.30-7.30pm. I can tell you, that is not easy! There is an evening service on Saturday from 5pm-7.15pm, being Vespers and Matins. It is not easy to get to see Fr Zacharias or Fr Simeon but they are usually available for confession on Saturdays or by arrangement. I live 25 minutes' drive away and it still isn't easy! However, if someone has a need, then somehow, the fathers seem to appear and will see you.

Andrew

19-04-2007, 12:41 AM

This may seem like a strange question, but how could I mail a letter to the monastery from the states? How do you do international mail?

Nina

19-04-2007, 03:46 AM

This may seem like a strange question, but how could I mail a letter to the monastery from the states? How do you do international mail?

Andrew,

The best way is to go to the post office and have them weigh and price the mail. They are extremely helpful at the post office.

Andrew

19-04-2007, 03:51 AM

Andrew,

The best way is to go to the post office and have them weigh and price the mail. They are extremely helpful at the post office.

Ah, ok. That's probably my best bet :)

Andreea

19-04-2007, 10:07 AM

He is risen indeed!

I have just returned from the Monastery. I would like by these means to thank all the people from this site who helped me with details in order to get there.

I understand that the easiest way to get to the Monastery is via Liverpool Street Station-Kelvedon as you have been already told. As for me, as Sr Paula advised me, I chose Stansted airport which is nearer to the monastery. From there you can take a taxi, which costs about 35 pounds or you can go by coach to Colchester and from there take a taxi, but the price is quite the same.

I can give you a telephone number of a taxi driver which knows very well how to get to the monastery:
Wayne's taxis
07742 466556
wmspriggs@aol.com.

However, the best thing is to talk to Sr. Paula.

I am sorry that I couldn't help you with many details, but may God bless your thought.

All the best,
Andreea

Andreea

19-04-2007, 10:14 AM

Christ is risen!

I am very glad to hear anything about Fr. Zacharias which is indeed a very profound man. I must say that I haven't met any other confesser as Fr. Zacharias, my words cannot describe the depthness and the delicacy of his soul.

I think you may already know that Fr. Zacharias published also the Enlargement of the heart, a wonderful book. There are also some Cds with his talks. I have an MP3 with some talks given on the Teology of St Silouane and Fr. Sophrony. if you are interesetd, I can send them to you.

Your blessings,
Andreea

Nina

19-04-2007, 01:12 PM

Andrew

19-04-2007, 08:05 PM

Yes!!! Please do submit the MP3 link. I am very interested.
Thank you for all the information you provided! :)

I second this! Please give us the link! :)

Andreea

20-04-2007, 02:51 PM

Nina

20-04-2007, 03:04 PM

Thank you for receiving my thought with such enthousiasm! Unfortunately, the talks are not on the Internet, I have them on a Cd in MP3 format. If you are intersted, I cand send them to you by post or by mail, even if I do not know if the final variant can actually work. Maybe you can help me with this.

All my best, in Christ,
Andreea

Giggles... Yes we are known for a lot of ardor on our side of the Earth village! (joking)
Really I was very thrilled by the idea you proposed dear sister in Christ, Andreea! I have heard lately so much about Father Zacharias, and it was a true gift to have you offer that. I will PM you (and maybe Andrew can contribute with any idea also) to see what is the easier way. It is very generous of you not only to offer the files, but also to offer to mail them, but let's see for an easier way. Thank you!!! :)

Fr Seraphim (Black)

20-04-2007, 05:56 PM

Giggles... Yes we are known for a lot of ardor on our side of the Earth village! (joking)
Really I was very thrilled by the idea you proposed dear sister in Christ, Andreea! I have heard lately so much about Father Zacharias, and it was a true gift to have you offer that. I will PM you (and maybe Andrew can contribute with any idea also) to see what is the easier way. It is very generous of you not only to offer the files, but also to offer to mail them, but let's see for an easier way. Thank you!!! :)

I am more than grateful to our Lord to see the enthusiasm and love for Fr. Zacharias, for I laboured in the Lord with him, for many years, and have known him personally now for 32 years.

But, I must say this: it is illegal to transfer these tapes - they are copy-righted - so, please, do not indulge in this. They can be obtained from their proper source - if you are unsure of this, you can Private Message me, and I will tell you where to get them.

Also, as an aside, Spiritual paternity, is a very personal relationship, and Fr. Zacharias, I am certain, would support me in saying this. As an attribute to this, I will say this also: he is not the only Spiritual confessor at Essex and I will go even further and state this: that, as in the life of Fr. Sophrony, he found his Staretz in a simple Russian monk, St. Silouan, so, also, now, the Monastery of Fr. Sophrony is not bereft of 'hidden' monks and nuns - you just need to pray!

Andrew

20-04-2007, 06:47 PM

I am more than grateful to our Lord to see the enthusiasm and love for Fr. Zacharias, for I laboured in the Lord with him, for many years, and have known him personally now for 32 years.

But, I must say this: it is illegal to transfer these tapes - they are copy-righted - so, please, do not indulge in this. They can be obtained from their proper source - if you are unsure of this, you can Private Message me, and I will tell you where to get them.

Also, as an aside, Spiritual paternity, is a very personal relationship, and Fr. Zacharias, I am certain, would support me in saying this. As an attribute to this, I will say this also: he is not the only Spiritual confessor at Essex and I will go even further and state this: that, as in the life of Fr. Sophrony, he found his Staretz in a simple Russian monk, St. Silouan, so, also, now, the Monastery of Fr. Sophrony is not bereft of 'hidden' monks and nuns - you just need to pray!

Ah, I didn't think of about copyright law and whatnot. Thank you for reminding us Father!

And thank you for your word on the Monastery. It is very encouraging to hear such things; we are very blessed now in the West to have spiritual children of Elder Sophrony and Elder Joseph living here with us.

Andreea

21-04-2007, 02:16 PM

Dear Father,

I am very sorry to see my message was a little bit misunderstood. I know that the copyright for the Cd belongs to the Monastery and I do not want to do an injury or to take on any action involving the Monastery and not being blessed. When I was at the Monasetry, I simply bought 2 Cds with the same content but the person for whom I have bought one of them
doesn't know... English. So I thought to offer it to somenone who may need it. That is way I thought of the post.

As for praying, I submit to your saying. And I remeber that there is a very beautiful prayer of St Simeon the New Theologian, for those seeking a spiritual father. At the end, we are all seeking, wherever, the face of God.

Forgive me if I acted wrong. Your blessings,
Andreea

Nina

23-04-2007, 02:22 PM

But, I must say this: it is illegal to transfer these tapes - they are copy-righted - so, please, do not indulge in this.

Christ is Risen!

Mea culpa, Father Seraphim! I assumed these were privately recorded with the blessing of Father Zacharias, and could be shared (since it has happened in the past). I apologize from my heart, since I did not wish to do any illegal thing.

Your Blessings,
Nina

Fr Seraphim (Black)

23-04-2007, 03:18 PM

Christ is Risen!

Mea culpa, Father Seraphim! I assumed these were privately recorded with the blessing of Father Zacharias, and could be shared (since it has happened in the past). I apologize from my heart, since I did not wish to do any illegal thing.

Your Blessings,
Nina

Certainly all apologies are fully accepted. And may our Lord forgive me for misunderstanding peoples' intentions.

At present, besides the cassettes, there are two excellent books:

i) 'Christ, our Way, and our Life, a Presentation of the Theology of Archimandrite Sophrony', translated from the Greek, by Sister Magdalen of the Monastery of St. John the Baptist, the original title being: Anafora stin Theologia tou Gerondas Sofroniou (based on his doctoral thesis, entitled) 'The Actualisation of the Hypostatic Principle in the Theology of Archimandrite Sophrony', submitted at the Faculty of Theology of the University of Thessaloniki, in 1988.

ii) 'The Enlargement of the Heart', "Be ye also enlarged"(2 Corinthians 6:13) in the Theology of Saint Silouan the Athonite and Elder Sophrony of Essex'
-which is part of i) and then conferences given in Wichita, Kansas, including articles and/or papers translated by Christopher Veniamin, Professor of Patristics, St. Tikhon's Seminary.

Also, highly recommended is: 'I Love Therefore I Am, the Theological Legacy of Archimandrite Sophrony' by Fr. Nicolas (Sakharov), who is the grand nephew of Fr. Sophrony and also resides at the Monastery of St. John the Baptist, Essex, United Kingdom.

Nina

23-04-2007, 04:14 PM

At present, besides the cassettes, there are two excellent books:

i) 'Christ, our Way, and our Life, a Presentation of the Theology of Archimandrite Sophrony', translated from the Greek, by Sister Magdalen of the Monastery of St. John the Baptist, the original title being: Anafora stin Theologia tou Gerondas Sofroniou (based on his doctoral thesis, entitled) 'The Actualisation of the Hypostatic Principle in the Theology of Archimandrite Sophrony', submitted at the Faculty of Theology of the University of Thessaloniki, in 1988.

ii) 'The Enlargement of the Heart', "Be ye also enlarged"(2 Corinthians 6:13) in the Theology of Saint Silouan the Athonite and Elder Sophrony of Essex'
-which is part of i) and then conferences given in Wichita, Kansas, including articles and/or papers translated by Christopher Veniamin, Professor of Patristics, St. Tikhon's Seminary.

Also, highly recommended is: 'I Love Therefore I Am, the Theological Legacy of Archimandrite Sophrony' by Fr. Nicolas (Sakharov), who is the grand nephew of Fr. Sophrony and also resides at the Monastery of St. John the Baptist, Essex, United Kingdom.

Dear Father Seraphim,

Thank you for your recomendations!

What about cassettes, or CDs?

Your Blessings,
Nina

Father Anthony

08-05-2007, 01:54 PM

Christ is Risen!

Thank you for the directions that have been posted. I will be going to the monastery in July. I spoke with Father Bartholomew last week and made the arrangements.

I have two questions. First, I will be arriving via the Eurostar from Paris to Waterloo International Station. Are there any other directions that could help me speed my journey to the monastery?

While I am at the monastery, Father Bartholomew informed that a pilgrimage to Saint Silouan will be taking place. Does anyone have any information on this event and what may be occurring?

I plan on taking photographs and video while I am there, and have already spoke to the fathers about it. Thank you.

In IC XC,
Father Anthony+

Kris

08-05-2007, 03:28 PM

Christ is Risen!

Thank you for the directions that have been posted. I will be going to the monastery in July. I spoke with Father Bartholomew last week and made the arrangements.

I have two questions. First, I will be arriving via the Eurostar from Paris to Waterloo International Station. Are there any other directions that could help me speed my journey to the monastery?

Bless Father,

You can take the tube (subway) from Waterloo to Liverpool St. Station by taking the Northern Line 4 stops north, change at Tottenham Crt. Rd. and get the Central Line 5 stops East.

At Liverpool St. Station, take the train to either Witham or Kelvedon. From there you can either take a taxi or, if its a weekday, a bus.

You could probably ask one of the nuns to pick you up at Kelvedon or Witham station.

Father Anthony

08-05-2007, 03:35 PM

Dear Kris, Christ is Risen!

Thank you very much for that helpful information.

In IC XC,
Father Anthony+

Alex Haig

08-05-2007, 08:18 PM

Christ is Risen!

Father, your blessing

If you arrive during the day I have always found it easier from Waterloo on the underground to get the Waterloo and City Line to Bank (which is direct, no stopping) then the Central Line to Liverpool St - unless in rush hour this is less crammed than the Northern line.

In XP

Alex

Father Anthony

09-05-2007, 02:52 AM

Dear Alex, Christ is Risen!

Thank you for the information. Yes, I am arriving in the morning so the information should be useful.

In IC XC,
Father Anthony+

Michael A.

25-06-2007, 12:07 AM

Hi, Im considering visiting St John the Baptist Monastery at Essex in August for a week. Would someone give me more information regarding accommodation

Many thanks
Michael

Marinaki

29-06-2007, 01:02 PM

Phone up 0044 (0) 1621 816471 and ask to speak to the guest master. He will tell you about accomodation. It's best to do it sooner rather than later because it gets filled up in the summer.

Father Anthony

29-06-2007, 01:47 PM

Phone up 0044 (0) 1621 816471 and ask to speak to the guest master. He will tell you about accomodation. It's best to do it sooner rather than later because it gets filled up in the summer.
I agree with the above advice. I phoned from the states over two months in advance to visit for four days in July, and still had difficulty in securing the visit. Thank goodness all worked out, and I will be there next month.

In IC XC,
Father Anthony+

Michael A.

01-07-2007, 11:49 AM

Phone up 0044 (0) 1621 816471 and ask to speak to the guest master. He will tell you about accomodation. It's best to do it sooner rather than later because it gets filled up in the summer.

Hi,
I ve been trying that phone number for 3 days now and i get no responce...
In a case that there are no rooms available, is there any hostel nearby the monastery?

Marinaki

04-07-2007, 01:19 AM

If you are ringing from the states you dial the code for England then (0) 1621 816 471 possibly leaving off the first zero. Remember there is a time difference - and the best time to ring is probably 11am-12 UK time in the week or at around 4pm (UK) time. There may be services going on or meals at other times. Otherwise write.

Father Anthony

05-07-2007, 02:51 PM

I am not trying to put this thread off topic, but I do need some information regarding Saint John's.

I understand that there will be a pilgrimage dedicated to Saint Silouan the Athonite the last weekend of this month at Saint John's. I will be at the monastery during this time. Can some one post some information regarding the pilgrimage and a possible program or link to it? I would be very appreciative.

In IC XC,
Father Anthony+

Kusanagi

15-08-2007, 09:05 AM

The event that happens at the monastery in July if i am correct doesn't concern St Siluan as they celebrate him on 24 September and November 26.

What happens in July 11 is the commemoration of the repose of Fr Sophrony. then July 24 commemoration of the repose of Mother Elizabeth

Rebecka Strajnic

17-10-2007, 12:59 AM

In the mercy of XC our Lord I greet everyone! ..as I am new in the community.

I am wondering how to contact and initiate a visit to St John the Baptist Monastery in Essex. Should I merely just call them, or do they have an official website where I can read more about it? I will be flying over from Sweden, Gothenburg.

Thank you for any help!

/Rebecka

Christ is Risen!

An explicitly practical question:
I'm considering visiting St John the Baptist Monastery (Old Rectory Rd, Tolleshunt Knights, Maldon, Essex) at some point. Would someone be able to tell me (here or privately) how to physically get there from London?

Many thanks.

Andreas Moran

18-10-2007, 06:17 PM

I am wondering how to contact and initiate a visit to St John the Baptist Monastery in Essex. Should I merely just call them, or do they have an official website where I can read more about it? I will be flying over from Sweden, Gothenburg.

Thank you for any help!

/Rebecka

Dear Rebecka,

The monastery has no website and no email address. You can write to them at:

The Old Rectory
Rectory Road
Tolleshunt KNights
Maldon
Essex
England
CM9 8EZ

and phone at: 0044 1621 816471

For accommodation at the monastery, ask for Sister Paula.

There are flights from Gothenburg to Stansted Airport (though Ryanair flights are not cheap). You may get a cheaper flight to Heathrow but then it's longer to travel to Tolleshunt Knights from Heathrow than from Stansted.

From Stansted there is a bus to Colchester (North Station) (takes about an hour). From there you can take a taxi to the monastery (takes about half an hour) which (during the daytime) will cost about £15.

From Heathrow, you can get the train (underground) to London (probably Paddington station). Heathrow has 5 terminals so you have to check at the terminal you arrive at because trains to London differ according to which terminal you depart from. In London, get the underground to Liverpool Street station. From Liverpool Street station, get a train to Kelvedon. From Kelvedon station, get a taxi to the monastery (about 15 minutes).

Hope this helps a bit.

In Christ,

Andreas.

PS If you phone, be patient and be prepared to have to try several times. Try late morning and mid-afternoon.

Rebecka Strajnic

19-10-2007, 09:36 PM

Dear Andreas,

In XC, thank you very much indeed, this helped immensely!

/ unworhty Rebecka

Denise King

17-02-2008, 03:41 PM

Dear Community,

At long last I will be able to visit the Monastery of St. John, during the 1st week of April. Since I have never stayed overnight before in a monastery, I would appreciate any tips (no matter how incidental) on clothing, manners, what to expect and what not to expect (e.g. hot water?). Should I always wear a head scarf (normally I don't)? Thanks for your contributions!

Very humbly, Denise

Paul Cowan

17-02-2008, 10:02 PM

Kris

17-02-2008, 11:16 PM

The ladies can better inform you on protocol for women. Proper dress is required including a head scarf. Dress well below the knees, sleeves preferrably long. No smoking. No loud talk. Don't expect hot water. They might have it though. Sleeping is typically dormitory style.

I don't think a headscarf is required. I see many women at the monastery who do not wear one (but bring one just in case). They did have hot water when I stayed there; I would assume the same is true of the women's section.

Sleeping conditions vary, from single rooms to shared. What you end up with depends on what's available, why you're there and how long you're staying for I think.

Father Anthony

17-02-2008, 11:58 PM

The best advice is to call the monastery (http://www.monasteryofstjohn.org/)and ask. Some of your questions are answered on their website though you have to dig a little.

Paul
Ummm Paul,

Wrong monastery and wrong continent. Check out the title to the thread.

In IC XC,
Father Anthony+

Andreas Moran

17-02-2008, 11:59 PM

Head scarves are not required. Some Russian ladies do wear them (though my wife doesn't) but most women don't. There is hot water and central heating. The churches are warm. I went to the liturgy in St Silouan's church yesterday morning and it was very warm inside. Tolleshunt Knights has a sort of micro-climate, and it usually feels damp and cold outside. Of course, a long skirt should be worn and modest dress. In church, women stand on the left as you go in (the same side as the icon of the Mother of God) and men on the right. There are folding chairs and stools for those who want them - you are not expected to stand throughout services but some do. When attending the Divine Liturgy, people do arrive for the beginning. For one thing, the priest gives absolution to those present before the Liturgy starts. A most important point is how Holy Communion is given. The faithful bend their knees and open their mouths wide. The Holy Gifts are dropped into the mouth and you do not touch the spoon. Close your mouth, consume the Holy Gifts in the usual way, and then go to take the drink in the Russian way, and take a piece of bread. If you wish, you can offer to help with some work such as washing up after meals but no one will demand anything from you. The best thing is to say to one of the sisters, 'is there anything I can do?' You can sit in the bookshop and read books but do not borrow them.

Paul Cowan

18-02-2008, 04:56 AM

Ummm Paul,

Wrong monastery and wrong continent. Check out the title to the thread.

In IC XC,
Father Anthony+

Sorry Fr.

I got carried with the first hit on Google.

Father Anthony

18-02-2008, 01:35 PM

Sorry Fr.

I got carried with the first hit on Google.
Dear Paul,

I just wanted to make sure we were all talking about the right monastery in the right place.

We all tend to jump the proverbial gun from time to time.

In IC XC,
Father Anthony+

Paul Cowan

18-02-2008, 07:44 PM

Dear Paul,

I just wanted to make sure we were all talking about the right monastery in the right place.

We all tend to jump the proverbial gun from time to time.

In IC XC,
Father Anthony+

Yeah, I got penalized on the track team for that too.

Denise King

23-02-2008, 05:46 PM

Dear Community,

Thanks for your tips. A long skirt is no problem - I'm used to that - and I will take a headscarf just in case. I am very much looking forward to this! I had heard about the dampness there, that's why I was wondering about warmth!

Humbly, Denise

Ioana

28-02-2008, 02:33 PM

Andreas Moran

28-02-2008, 10:12 PM

Hello! I am from France, and I would like to stay a few days at the monastery of Saint John the Baptist-Essex. I intend to do this in may. Could someone tell me how to get the monastery from Luton airport. There are buses or trains from Luton to Essex or Maldon? Thank you!

Dear Ioana,

Do you have to fly to Luton? There are many Ryanair flights from France to Stansted which is much nearer (I know because my brother lives in France) . First, check out if you can fly to Stansted.

In Christ,

Andreas.

(PS I'm replying because I live near the monastery.)

Ioana

29-02-2008, 11:08 AM

Dear Ioana,

Do you have to fly to Luton? There are many Ryanair flights from France to Stansted which is much nearer (I know because my brother lives in France) . First, check out if you can fly to Stansted.

In Christ,

Andreas.

(PS I'm replying because I live near the monastery.)

Thank you very much for responding!

Yes, I have to take fly to Luton, it's the most interesting for me, cause I do not live in Paris, but in Brest. And I've already bought my ticket. There is a possibility for me to get directly the monastery from Luton?

Ioana

Kris

29-02-2008, 10:17 PM

Yes, I have to take fly to Luton, it's the most interesting for me, cause I do not live in Paris, but in Brest. And I've already bought my ticket. There is a possibility for me to get directly the monastery from Luton?

You could take the train from Luton to St. Pancras International (which, by the way, has a direct Eurostar train to Paris) and from there get the tube to Liverpool Street station, and then take the train from there to Kelvedon.

I don't know if there's a shorter route by bus.

You could also take a taxi directly from Luton airport, but that would be very expensive.

Andreas Moran

29-02-2008, 10:42 PM

Just to say that I've PMed Ioana with the information she needs.

Annemarie B.

06-04-2008, 09:29 PM

Hello everyone, I'm new to this forum, so I hope I've found the right place to post my question.
Anyway, I'd like to ask if anyone knows if the St. John the Baptist Monastery organises retreats?
Friendly greeetings,
Annemarie.

Andreas Moran

07-04-2008, 10:14 AM

Anyway, I'd like to ask if anyone knows if the St. John the Baptist Monastery organises retreats?
Friendly greeetings,
Annemarie.

Dear Annemarie,

Not to my knowledge. Staying in the monastery would itself be a retreat.

Annemarie B.

07-04-2008, 10:25 PM

Dear Annemarie,

Not to my knowledge. Staying in the monastery would itself be a retreat.

Thanks for your quick reply Andreas.

Faith Shlim

29-05-2008, 09:17 AM

Christ is risen!

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

I’m planning to visit St John the Baptist Monastery, Essex soon and need your help.

How do I reach to the Liverpool street station from Heathrow 5 terminal?

Thanks
Faith

Andreas Moran

29-05-2008, 02:34 PM

Dear Faith,

You could take the Heathrow Express train from HRW T5 to Paddington. It takes about 20 minutes and costs about £15.50. Buy your ticket before boarding the train From Paddington, take the underground, either Circle or Hammersmith & City line, to Liverpool Street.

Or, take the underground, Piccadilly line, from T5 to Kings' Cross St Pancras. It takes about 1 hour and costs about £4. From KCStP, again take the Circle or Hammersmith & City line to Liverpool Street.

Faith Shlim

02-06-2008, 07:45 AM

Andreas Moran

02-06-2008, 02:43 PM

Thank you for the prompt reply. Could I ask you something else? What direction to the Monastery is better for these who visit England for first time like me:

Liverpool Street Station - Witham - Monastery

or
Liverpool Street Station - Kelvedon- Monastery

Thanks,
/F

I think Kelvedon is nearer. The taxi ride fom Kelvedon station is about 15 minutes. The taxi drivers are very used to taking people to the monastery.

Faith Shlim

02-06-2008, 03:25 PM

Thank you for the help, Andreas.
Have a nice evening.
/F

Andreas Moran

07-07-2008, 05:07 PM

Those with an interest in the monastery here in Essex may like to know that tomorrow, Fr Dcn Melkizedek will be ordained priest, as will Fr Dcn Petros next Sunday. Archimandrite Symeon is unwell and no longer officiates; you may wish to remember him in your prayers.

Faith Shlim

09-07-2008, 09:04 AM

Archimandrite Symeon is unwell and no longer officiates; you may wish to remember him in your prayers.

o.k. Thank you

For fr. Melkizedek & fr. Petros - let God bless them.

Thoumass Stephanou

01-01-2009, 08:18 PM

Hello. Im new to this forum and am very thankful for all the information that has been provided.

I am wanting to go to the monastery of St John the Baptist but have never been to stay at a monastery.

I will be calling tomorrow morning to see if they have any availability.

Is there any recommendations that anyone has for me?

O theos mazi sas.
Tom.

Kusanagi

02-01-2009, 10:34 AM

If you talk to Fr Melchizedek he looks after the quarters for the men.
Also for everyone's info Fr Symeon is much better now!
Thanks to God.

Thoumass Stephanou

03-01-2009, 01:15 PM

The news of Father Symeon getting better is amazing news.
This shows the power of prayer between many different people.
With faith and hope God listens to us.
Thankyou for informing me of who to ask for.
O theos mazi sas.

Thoumass Stephanou

05-01-2009, 01:43 AM

Im very thankful and blessed to be able to go to the monastery at such short notice. Il be setting off early tomorrow to make it for the 12 noon service and staying until Wednesday.
I feel extremely lucky to have the opportunity, Im sure I will learn a great deal.
God bless =), Tom.

Paraskevi

20-01-2009, 12:54 PM

Hi,
I'm hoping to visit St John the Baptist monastery in the next two weeks but I have heard that the monastery closes for a few weeks? Does anybody know when these weeks are?
God Bless you all,
Paraskevi

Kusanagi

20-01-2009, 03:04 PM

yes it closes during the great fast. It's closed as in it will not allow pilgrims to stay over night unless they know you well, but you can visit for the day but just won't be accommodated, if i remember correctly.

Andreas Moran

20-01-2009, 07:57 PM

Fr Symeon is back in the monastery. He looks somewhat frail but when I spoke to him the other day he sounded his usual self.

Paraskevi

21-01-2009, 03:56 AM

Thank you for informing me of the monastery not being open for pilgrims during the great feast.
I am also so happy to hear that Father Symeon is a bit better.. that is wonderful news:) God bless.

Andreas Moran

21-01-2009, 09:18 AM

This year (2009), the monastery is closed from Theophany until 2 February. It is then open until the beginning of Great Lent. It is closed for the first week of Great Lent but then open for the remainder of Great Lent until and including Pascha.

Vasiliki D.

10-06-2009, 10:23 AM

The last month has seen an increased saturation of all things "Essex" in my spiritual life ... now, the first was Father Seraphim (Black) having posted a prayer for his health earlier this year (not knowing who he was but having a sence inside me of compassion when I read Athanasias post) I tracked this thread ... then, recently, he appeared on the board for a while! This was great since it gave me a brief window of opportunity to find out that he was the spiritual son of Elder Sophrony .... so, I googled ...and found a whole connection and series of links that has left me "dumb" since ... the three key Saints that I have been "mesmorised" with have been (in no particular order) St. John of Kronstadt, St. Nikolai Velimirovich and St. Silouan the Athonite .... so, the link to Elder Sophrony is phenomenal.

Then, two weeks ago, I was chatting with a priest from USA who recommended I read two books ... they were:

* Enlargement of the Heart by Arch. Zacharias and
* The Hidden Man of the Heart by Arch. Zacharias

Oh, did I mention that I found out Arch. Zacharias is a spiritual child of Elder Sophrony and the books are basically an representation of St.Silouan's writings?

What a small world it is! Umm ... I wanna go to Essex now!!!

Will I find the relics of St. Silouan and Elder Sophrony at the monastery?

Oh, and can a girl stay at the monastery for a while and learn some of the Spirituality of the writings through actual work (ie the abbess help put someone like me on track)?

Anyone know? Any useful stories/experiences to relate from the monastery?

Nina

10-06-2009, 07:05 PM

VV, the guy to go to for your Qs is Andreas. In case he did not read your post maybe you can PM him.

Kusanagi

12-06-2009, 08:37 PM

Will I find the relics of St. Silouan and Elder Sophrony at the monastery?

Oh, and can a girl stay at the monastery for a while and learn some of the Spirituality of the writings through actual work (ie the abbess help put someone like me on track)?

Anyone know? Any useful stories/experiences to relate from the monastery?

There is a small portion of relics of St Silouan, the feast of St Silouan is a very big feast even though the monastery's patron is St John. Elder Sophrony is buried in the crypt below a chapel which is situated on top of the area.
A girl can stay as it is a mixed monastery, there is no abbess at the monastery. Elder Sophrony asked Mother Gavrilla once but she turned down the request.

Not sure what kind of experiences you ask for, there are a few. There was a nun from Lebanon who made an impression with her psalter reading as many people thought it was very pious and uplifting. She knew the psalms by heart.
I like the mixture of nuns and monks from all corners of the world.:) ANdreas can add more

Margaret S.

12-06-2009, 10:27 PM

I like the mixture of nuns and monks from all corners of the world.:) ANdreas can add more

I was there in Lent and our priest was having a little banter with one of the monastery priests about nationalities and I think they decided that the monastery has 18 nationalities, like our church/my weekday church (I am the luckiest person - I have two churches, like two sides of a family). That is one of the things I love about Orthodoxy - people think it is all Russians and Greeks and then you go somewhere like Essex (or Edinburgh!) and there are Egyptians, Poles, French, Dutch, Syrian and Japanese - it makes the heart soar. And the nuns in Essex are lovely. You want each of them all to be your own sister and they are all beautiful. We are surrounded everywhere by conventionally pretty yet boring 'Barbie' faces from advertisements, magazines and film trailers, yet go to Essex where the women are veiled in black, apparently figureless, and haven't put goo on their skin for years, if ever, and there you see faces you don't want to take your eyes off.

Regards
Margaret
in Edinburgh

Vasiliki D.

13-06-2009, 09:28 AM

I was there in Lent and our priest was having a little banter with one of the monastery priests about nationalities and I think they decided that the monastery has 18 nationalities, like our church/my weekday church (I am the luckiest person - I have two churches, like two sides of a family). That is one of the things I love about Orthodoxy - people think it is all Russians and Greeks and then you go somewhere like Essex (or Edinburgh!) and there are Egyptians, Poles, French, Dutch, Syrian and Japanese - it makes the heart soar. And the nuns in Essex are lovely. You want each of them all to be your own sister and they are all beautiful. We are surrounded everywhere by conventionally pretty yet boring 'Barbie' faces from advertisements, magazines and film trailers, yet go to Essex where the women are veiled in black, apparently figureless, and haven't put goo on their skin for years, if ever, and there you see faces you don't want to take your eyes off.

Regards
Margaret
in Edinburgh

Why is that do you think? The nuns at our monastery have the same thing about them ... there is a beauty that radiates from their skin and their face and their eyes and their smile that is delicate and warm and it is so beautiful to look at (that sometimes you wonder if they think you are weird for staring at them, chuckle out loud) ...

You dont find that ""glow"" in very pious girls in a local parish ... rarely really ... can it be attributed to the Grace of God or can it be something more practical and scientific and attributed to a different lifestyle than our own?

If I didnt have such a burning desire to fall in love again ... my other burning desire would be to lock myself in a monastery ... hence why I am always confused :) I would never want to go to a monastery withour having resolved issue #1 - it would be such an insult to God to choose him only because all else never worked out in the real world. That is why I asked if there is the possibility to "work like a nun" available to girls who are not serious about being a nun but would still like to experience it.

V.

Nina

13-06-2009, 04:43 PM

If I didnt have such a burning desire to fall in love again ... my other burning desire would be to lock myself in a monastery ... hence why I am always confused :)
V.

Yes until you get pregnant and feel so ill that you say out loud: "My God what have I done to myself? Why didn't I go to a monastery?" But then God gives you strength to your heart and you think and think of it and say: "Ok although it is difficult I would do this again since it is something sublime because God ordained it." What I am trying to say is always we have temptations, but God helps us overcome them and lift our cross.

Re: Nuns' faces. I think it is the Grace of God and also all the prostrations that kick out of the system the bodily and spiritual toxins. We have a very beautiful Gerontissa here in US. She came from Greece and now is in one of the monasteries of Geronda Efraim in PA.

Also some months ago a nun from the Canadian monasteries of Geronda Efraim passed away. I received pictures of her departed and she was so beautiful although departed. She had a sweet smile and such beauty on her face - and she had suffered from cancer and was in her 30-ies - just like she was telling to others about beauties of Heaven. It was amazing.

Paul Cowan

13-06-2009, 06:26 PM

That is why I asked if there is the possibility to "work like a nun" available to girls who are not serious about being a nun but would still like to experience it.

V.

Is it possible in this instance for the parents of the girls to get permission from the monastery for their daughters to spend their summer vacations in the monastery "acting" like a novice for the summer? This would not only expose them to this lifestyle, but may spark the desire for this lifestyle in them over living in the world.

Margaret S.

13-06-2009, 09:51 PM

Margaret S.

13-06-2009, 10:06 PM

Why is that do you think? The nuns at our monastery have the same thing about them ... can it be attributed to the Grace of God or can it be something more practical and scientific and attributed to a different lifestyle than our own?

If I didnt have such a burning desire to fall in love again ... my other burning desire would be to lock myself in a monastery ... hence why I am always confused :)
V.

I think Nina is right. It's a life focused entirely on God that does it plus, I guess, a lack of sweet, fatty processed food. My dad who died last year at 81 used to say girls had better skin when he was young even though all they had to put on it was cold cream but, if he was right, it was probably much more what they put in it rather than on it.

If you do lock yourself in a monastery it will be because you've fallen in love again :)

Margaret

Vasiliki D.

14-06-2009, 04:08 AM

I think Nina is right. It's a life focused entirely on God that does it plus, I guess, a lack of sweet, fatty processed food. My dad who died last year at 81 used to say girls had better skin when he was young even though all they had to put on it was cold cream but, if he was right, it was probably much more what they put in it rather than on it.

If you do lock yourself in a monastery it will be because you've fallen in love again :)

Margaret

... see, that is a very imporant point. These girls, for example, live in Essex! Right in the heart of pollution (from the outside environment) but do not partake of the lifestyle and probably eat little - like birds - and wholesome foods like boiled vegetables or legumes ... but so do many health conscious vegetarians but they just dont have that "glow"!

I think we are all in love with Christ ... I just wonder sometimes if there were girls who really wanted to get married but just gave it up to be nuns.

Mary

14-06-2009, 06:21 AM

Is it possible in this instance for the parents of the girls to get permission from the monastery for their daughters to spend their summer vacations in the monastery "acting" like a novice for the summer? This would not only expose them to this lifestyle, but may spark the desire for this lifestyle in them over living in the world.

At the Monastery of St John, in Manton, CA, they have a 'summer novice' program for young men. I think it's a great opportunity for them, to be able to worship with, and work with men who love God, and are totally devoted to Him. When my son is a bit older, and knows how to make himself more useful, I'd love for him to spend his summers at the monastery!

Now that I think about it... perhaps my daughter and I will do likewise at a women's monastery... hmmm.... thanks for the brilliant idea! =) I'm sure they won't mind hosting us, if we tell them we'd love to be their slaves for a few weeks.... The way I hear it, every monastery can use some extra working hands...

In Christ,
Mary

Mary

14-06-2009, 06:36 AM

I think we are all in love with Christ ... I just wonder sometimes if there were girls who really wanted to get married but just gave it up to be nuns.

This is not an orthodox story. It is protestant. For some reason, I was touched by the beauty of it, and could never forget it, although I've forgotten all the details such as names, places and dates.

They were engaged to be married, when they went on their first missionary trip to some far off land that they needed to get to by ship. She got there. He didn't. They were caught in a storm, and he drowned. She was rescued. They found a few of his belongings. His Bible and one other thing, that I don't remember. She had lost all of her belongings. She kept these two things with her all her life. She never married. She did serve as a missionary till she either retired or died... in the place where they were both headed to.

I was always impressed by her love for this man which she continued to show to him, by never seeking to marry another. And I wondered why God would've allowed them to never get married. Obviously, it would've been one beautiful marriage! I was also impressed by how her love for Christ did not diminish and that she had the strength to continue doing the work, that she had originally not planned to be doing alone.

Perhaps the love for Christ, and the love for a spouse - is really just two sides of the same coin and you don't really have to 'give one up' in order to be devoted to the other. I don't know. Just thinking aloud. =)

In Christ,
Mary.

Andreas Moran

14-06-2009, 10:17 AM

Essex! Right in the heart of pollution (from the outside environment)

I presume you mean the pollution of 'the world'. North-east Essex is not at the heart of 'the world': it's a predominantly rural area with the small town of Colchester (of Roman foundation) the only settlement of any size. The monastery is located in a leafy lane which doesn't go anywhere.

Nina

14-06-2009, 05:44 PM

Perhaps the love for Christ, and the love for a spouse - is really just two sides of the same coin and you don't really have to 'give one up' in order to be devoted to the other. I don't know. Just thinking aloud. =)

In Christ,
Mary.

It is usual in Orthodoxy that many widowed people become monastics (we also have a number of saints who were married and then became monastics). But there are also couples who have finished with the responsibilities of raising a family and both go to monasteries. While visiting the monastery of Geronda Ephraim last Thanksgiving we met an Orthodox couple (who converted actually) and who were thinking to become monastics since their children had grown up and had families. It is amazing how God creates all these paths for us and for our salvation.

David James

15-06-2009, 01:38 AM

Mary, have you ever read the short story "Cleansing Monday" ["Chisti ponjedjel'nik"] by Ivan Bunin? If not, I highly recommend it. Bunin is, IMO, one of the top five short story writers in any language, and this is one of my favorites. It is also about unrequited love, at least on the part of the man, but in an Orthodox context. FYI, Bunin was the first Russian to win the Nobel Prize for literature [for his translation of my distant cousin Henry Longfellow's "Song of Hiawatha," of all things], but he is best known for his short stories. They are fine in translation, but in Russian they are perfect gems. "Cleansing Monday" is included in "The Elagin Affair and Other Stories," by Ivan Bunin, translated from the Russian and with an introduction by Graham Hettlinger, Ivan R. Dee, Chicago, 2005, ISBN 1-56663-641-8.

David James

This is not an orthodox story. It is protestant. For some reason, I was touched by the beauty of it, and could never forget it, although I've forgotten all the details such as names, places and dates.

They were engaged to be married, when they went on their first missionary trip to some far off land that they needed to get to by ship. She got there. He didn't. They were caught in a storm, and he drowned. She was rescued. They found a few of his belongings. His Bible and one other thing, that I don't remember. She had lost all of her belongings. She kept these two things with her all her life. She never married. She did serve as a missionary till she either retired or died... in the place where they were both headed to.

I was always impressed by her love for this man which she continued to show to him, by never seeking to marry another. And I wondered why God would've allowed them to never get married. Obviously, it would've been one beautiful marriage! I was also impressed by how her love for Christ did not diminish and that she had the strength to continue doing the work, that she had originally not planned to be doing alone.

Perhaps the love for Christ, and the love for a spouse - is really just two sides of the same coin and you don't really have to 'give one up' in order to be devoted to the other. I don't know. Just thinking aloud. =)

In Christ,
Mary.

Mary

15-06-2009, 03:23 AM

Mary, have you ever read the short story "Cleansing Monday" ["Chisti ponjedjel'nik"] by Ivan Bunin?

David James

No, I haven't. I'd love to read it! I'll have to look for it in the library. I think we should start another thread for such stories of Love, because another one just came to my mind that I absolutely have to share!

In Christ,
Mary

Andrew

23-06-2009, 05:53 AM

Also some months ago a nun from the Canadian monasteries of Geronda Efraim passed away. I received pictures of her departed and she was so beautiful although departed. She had a sweet smile and such beauty on her face - and she had suffered from cancer and was in her 30-ies - just like she was telling to others about beauties of Heaven. It was amazing.

That photo is beautiful. She looks like she's asleep and having a good dream. People told me that she wasn't smiling during her death, but afterwards that happened.

Michael Colburn

13-07-2009, 02:57 AM

Andreas Moran

13-07-2009, 01:14 PM

Greetings in Christ!

I live in the USA and plan to visit the UK in September. I plan to visit the monastery as a pilgrim for two nights, arriving on Saturday, Sept 12 and leaving on Monday, Sept 14. Here are my questions:

1. What is the best time to arrive on a Saturday?
2. Is it possible to reserve a bed by calling the monastery, or is it simply 'first come, first served'?
3. What time are the services on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday?

Thanks!

In Christ,

Michael

1. As early as you can, but at any rate soon before 4pm; afternoon tea is served from 4-5pm and the evening service (Vespers and Matins) starts at 5pm. It finishes about 7.25pm and is followed by the evening meal. There is no service after the meal.

2. Reserve a room by calling the monastery as soon as possible or else there may be nowhere for you to stay.

3. Saturday - Hours and Divine Liturgy starting at 7am; evening service as at 1.
Sunday - Hours and Divine Liturgy 7am and 10.30am, unless there is a hierarchical liturgy in which case there is only the second service. Akathist Hymn to the Mother of God (in Greek) in the afternoon (usually 3pm, but check time when there).
Monday - Jesus Prayer 7-8am and 5.30-7.30pm.

Michael Colburn

13-07-2009, 03:28 PM

1. As early as you can, but at any rate soon before 4pm; afternoon tea is served from 4-5pm and the evening service (Vespers and Matins) starts at 5pm. It finishes about 7.25pm and is followed by the evening meal. There is no service after the meal.

2. Reserve a room by calling the monastery as soon as possible or else there may be nowhere for you to stay.

3. Saturday - Hours and Divine Liturgy starting at 7am; evening service as at 1.
Sunday - Hours and Divine Liturgy 7am and 10.30am, unless there is a hierarchical liturgy in which case there is only the second service. Akathist Hymn to the Mother of God (in Greek) in the afternoon (usually 3pm, but check time when there).
Monday - Jesus Prayer 7-8am and 5.30-7.30pm.

Thanks! I have called and reserved a bed.

Michael Colburn

16-07-2009, 02:53 AM

Thanks! I have called and reserved a bed.

The Guest Master recommended that I go to Witham from London, then catch a bus. This would be on a Saturday. Does anyone know what bus goes by the monastery from Witham on Satursdays? I tried looking on the Internet but it is hard to tell. Thanks!

Margaret S.

16-07-2009, 10:36 AM

The Guest Master recommended that I go to Witham from London, then catch a bus. This would be on a Saturday. Does anyone know what bus goes by the monastery from Witham on Satursdays? I tried looking on the Internet but it is hard to tell. Thanks!

It's the 91 and it leaves from just outside the railway station. This page might help http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/stations/wtm/busmaps.html also there's Traveline http://www.traveline.org.uk/index.htm it's a useful number to add into your phone as you can get information on any public transport route anywhere in the UK from them. The 91 will only take you to Tiptree and you'll need to get a taxi from there but it's very cheap. If no-one else has a taxi number for you by the time I get home I'll post the one I use (have left my mobile at home).

Regards
Margaret
in Edinburgh

PS - For some reason the bus number wants to take you to Bible Gateway!

Kusanagi

16-07-2009, 05:54 PM

There is a 9X bus that goes from Witham Station to the top of Rectory Road and I have taken this once with a friend. The bus only comes once an hour though. If you ask the bus driver he will know about it. It seems only drivers of public transport knows about the monastery while most of the people are unaware there is a monastery in their area. Most taxi drivers are interested in visiting the monastery f you speak to them but they hesitate.

Barbara J.

16-07-2009, 08:34 PM

[QUOTE=Nina;79896] We have a very beautiful Gerontissa here in US. She came from Greece and now is in one of the monasteries of Geronda Efraim in PA.

Are you refering to Mother Olympiada?

She is the only person I have ever known that I would, unequivocably, call a living saint.
I first met her in 2002 and have visited her monastery, Holy Protection, at least 3-4 times per year since.
Her level of ascesis and godly love is astounding.

When I pray for her I say, "Lord, please bless Mr. Olympiada and, by her prayers and the prayers of all the nuns at Holy Protection, have mercy on me, a sinner!"

I could go on and on about the blessings I have received from my visits to Holy Protection. The richness of the Church is felt there in its deep peace. The nuns are, each one of them, a treasure to speak with and to know!

Margaret S.

16-07-2009, 08:36 PM

Taxi number for Tiptree 01621 817399.

It is possible to walk from Tiptree to the monastery - I don't when I'm arriving /leaving because I find it too much if I have luggage.

Google it and see what you think. I've always found the taxi reliable.

Margaret

Marinaki

17-07-2009, 01:27 AM

The bus is infrequent. It goes closer than Tiptree - to Top Road (ask driver) ... but then it's a walk down a country lane, or across a field I think! Not ideal for the first time. I guess the guestmaster was trying to save you the expense. If you have any queries need to know times etc. the people at the monastery are always helpful, they have local bus info by the phone and will happily provide info if you ask.

However, there is a minicab (private taxi) office opposite Witham station, they know the monastery well and it costs about £14 to get a taxi there. Just ask for 'The Monastery' and they'll happily take you there. I use them all the time.
If you go on Saturday/Sunday morning quite often other people from London, who are going to the monastery, are there and so if you're fortunate you'll find others to share a cab with.

Other official taxis wait outside in the rank ... this are slightly more expensive, but also know the monastery well. I think it's a better option with luggage.

Nina

23-07-2009, 07:56 PM

Are you refering to Mother Olympiada?

Yes.

She is the only person I have ever known that I would, unequivocably, call a living saint.
I first met her in 2002 and have visited her monastery, Holy Protection, at least 3-4 times per year since.
Her level of ascesis and godly love is astounding.

When I pray for her I say, "Lord, please bless Mr. Olympiada and, by her prayers and the prayers of all the nuns at Holy Protection, have mercy on me, a sinner!"

I could go on and on about the blessings I have received from my visits to Holy Protection. The richness of the Church is felt there in its deep peace. The nuns are, each one of them, a treasure to speak with and to know!

I couldn't agree more!

Soulla

13-08-2009, 12:33 PM

Hi
Can anyone tell me if there will be a church service this Saturday 15th August 2009 and what time it will begin

thank you

Andreas Moran

13-08-2009, 08:36 PM

Hi
Can anyone tell me if there will be a church service this Saturday 15th August 2009 and what time it will begin

thank you

Dear Soulla,

The vigil for the Dormition is on Friday evening at 5.30pm and the liturgy on Saturday morning is at the usual time - 7am the hours followed by the liturgy at 7.30am.

Soulla

14-08-2009, 09:45 AM

thanks Andreas is there a service later ini the day? I was told that there is also a service at around 1pm on a Saturday

Andreas Moran

14-08-2009, 11:57 PM

The only other service on Saturday will be the usual evening vigil at 5pm. 1pm is lunch time.

A. Alexandrou

27-08-2009, 07:34 PM

Hello from a new member in this forum. My question is directed at people who know St. John monastery in Essex quite well, as i need to ask for a detail regarding someone i met there 15 years ago.

In 1994, i had visited the monastery for the first and -so far- the only time. I spent a wonderfully calm weekend there, where i had the opportunity to meet a really wonderful monk, whose name sadly eludes me. He had told me that he was Swiss, and I remember that he spoke English and Greek.

He heard my confession on the Saturday evening, answered my many questions on faith and dogma, and then he officiated the Divine Liturgy on the following day, where i took holy communion.

Sadly i do not remember his name, but if anybody has a fair guess of who i am referring to, i would like to know his name and to see if he is still at St. John's, as i would really love to see him again.

Thanks very much for any information you may have.

Alkis

Kusanagi

27-08-2009, 10:33 PM

I think you are talking about Fr Symeon who sadly passed away on 20 August 2009.

Madina

21-12-2009, 08:48 PM

Andreas Moran

21-12-2009, 11:49 PM

Hello!

Excuse for my bad English. I have a question. I wish to arrive to a monastery in the afternoon on January, 1st, 2010. Whether it is possible to stop and spend the night in a monastery one night? Unfortunately, I almost do not speak on english, therefore I do not see sense to call by phone. Whether the monastery will be opened on January, 1st?
I the photographer. I photograph for magazine "FOMA". Whether It is possible to photograph in a monastery?

Thanks if who answers.
Madina

The monastery is open to guests at this time. If you would like, I can telephone the monastery to see if they have a room for you. If they do not, there are bed and breakfast places nearby where you could stay. (I can't offer you a room because my wife's parents are here from Moscow.) Please give your full name when replying.

Kusanagi

22-12-2009, 01:02 AM

i wasn't sure if i should add the news here or not but Fr Nikolai will be made a spiritual father soon according to a friend of mine who keeps in touch with him. If true you might catch this service.

Madina

22-12-2009, 07:43 AM

Thanks! I will be very grateful to you if you call by phone to learn, whether there will be a free room or a free bed in a monastery that I could spend the night. If is not present, I will take advantage of inexpensive hotel. My full name Madina Astakhova. I am from Saints-Petersburg.

Madina

22-12-2009, 08:09 AM

i wasn't sure if i should add the news here or not but Fr Nikolai will be made a spiritual father soon according to a friend of mine who keeps in touch with him. If true you might catch this service.

I have correctly understood? - Father Nikolay is in this monastery? And it speaks Russian? I do not wish to disturb father Nikolay, but just in case to me know at whom I can to ask the help in an inconvenient case is better. Though, most likely, such case will not be.

Marinaki

22-12-2009, 07:57 PM

You must phone the monastery if you wish to stay the night. It cannot always be guaranteed.
Several people speak Russian there and will understand you.
You must ask permission of the Hegoumen, Fr. Kyrill about photographs.

Pelagia

01-02-2010, 08:57 AM

I'm planning to visit saint John the Baptist monastery in essex during the summer.

I would like to ask if any of you has ever been there. How can a visitor be part of the spiritual life that nuns lead there?
is the monastery big? are there special sections and places where a visitor can stay or repose . places such as gardens, pools or a forest maybe.

whatever the case may be what I mostly seek is spiritual refreshment , guidance and inspiration , a way to be iinspire and practise what I have been reading for so long without being able to exercise virtues on a daily base.
Of course food , apart from sustain us and keep us alive , according to our Fathers is not that important. but is there a kitchen for visitors? or do they share food with the nuns ? are there books available to be read by strangers ?

I have never been to England . I don't know exactly how far is it from London ? details of reaching the monastery from the airport of Stanford are also unknown to me
how can I travel from the airport there ?
how far is London ?
we use euro as a financial mean , but what's the difference with pound Stirling?

I will greatly appreciate any of your answers

thank you

Olga

01-02-2010, 09:06 AM

Hello Pelagia

You should find the answers you're looking for in this thread here:

Pelagia

01-02-2010, 09:14 PM

thank you , I appreciate your respond , but have you ever been there, there are still some things that I would love to know and to which no answer is found in the thread above.

Pelagia

02-02-2010, 08:02 AM

thank you ,
may the Lord bless you , always

Hsiang-Ping, Chang

26-02-2010, 06:23 PM

Hello! Dear all,

I'm going to St. John the Baptist monastery in the middle of March and then will stay for 2 weeks more around there. I'm a new member of Christ and am from Taiwan (kind of far, with only one Orthodox church and very few Orthodoxy). Instead of hotel, I'd like to find some Orthodoxy who/whom would accept me to stay with, and for me to learn more about Orthodoxy's way of life. I'll pay all the expense as that when I studied aboard and stayed with a host family.

If anyone could help or give me some advises, I'll be very appreciated!

Wish you all help and spiritual happiness during the Great Lent!

Photini from Taiwan

Hsiang-Ping, Chang

26-02-2010, 06:34 PM

Hello! Pelagia,

I'm afraid that I don't have the answers you want now, but 'am going to in the middle of March. This will be my first pilgrimage, wish I would have something to share with you after then. May God grant you clear to your questions!

Wish you help and spiritual happiness during the Great Lent!

Photini from Taiwan

Paul Fowler

25-04-2010, 09:24 PM

Dear All,

Christ is Risen!!

I am considering going to the Monastery in May. Can anyone let me know if Father Symeon is still guestmaster for the men? I have been told that there is a Priest there of the Moscow Patriarchate but I do not know his name, does anyone know who that is?

In XC

Paul

Athanasia

25-04-2010, 09:47 PM

Rdr. Paul,

Fr. Symeon fell asleep in the Lord many months ago. I do not know who the guestmaster is any longer. I am sure if you call you will be appraised who is.

In Christ, Athanasia

Sophia C.

26-04-2010, 12:28 AM

Hi Paul
He is risen indeed!
I think that may be Archimandrite Nicholas Sakharov, nephew of Father Sophrony.
In Christ,
Sophia

Denise King

26-04-2010, 11:32 AM

Christos anesti!
I believe Father Melchizedek ist guest master for men. Sister Paula for women.

Paul Fowler

27-04-2010, 02:07 PM

Alithos anesti!

Thank you to all of you for your kindness in answering my questions

Paul

Paul Fowler

02-07-2010, 01:44 PM

I have just returned from a time at the Monastery. From a practical point, Father Melchizadek told me that the best time of the day to ring is between 2.30 and 4pm when the phone is manned.

I appreciate that that is 2.30-4pm local time (presumably either GMT or BST depending on the time of the year) but it may give people who want to contact the Monastery a good idea when it is best for them to ring (apologies for those of you who are twelve hours ahead or twelve hours behind UK time)

Paul

Kusanagi

16-07-2010, 11:41 PM

I felt the need to share something from last Sunday, Fr Nikolai said Russian astronauts have taken a photo of Elder Sophrony into space to the space station so the Elder is constantly orbiting the earth!:)

Paul Cowan

18-07-2010, 04:07 AM

May the Holy elder pray for all mankind where ever he finds himself.

Savvas

22-11-2010, 01:45 PM

Michael Stickles

22-11-2010, 03:23 PM

Hello to All ,

I am looking to visit Essex monastery on December, and trying to find tickets to get there by train, from Birmingham.Has anyone got any idea on which train stations I need to get from Birmingham to London and from there to Witham ?
Thanks a lot!

You might try this site (http://www.raileasy.co.uk/go/home). It lets you pick your station in Birmingham and gives the route details.

Savvas

19-12-2010, 08:32 PM

Thanks for the advice Michael , trip is for 24th December, if God wants.. Merry Christmas to everyone in the forum

Kusanagi

21-12-2010, 09:51 PM

I think trains from Birmingham stops off at St Pancras or Euston. From there you can take the tube to Liverpool Street Station (there is a direct train from St Pancras and from Euston take a tube to St Panrcras, if you need a bit more help ask St Pancras I am sure he will love to help!;) ) and then from there to either Witham of Kelvedon station and take a cab to the monastery. Hopefully God permitting the weather will be better for you to travel in. The snow has been more heavy in London and everything grinds to a halt.

RX Calinda

18-03-2011, 06:30 PM

Dear all,

This is my first post on this forum and by these means I would like to thank everyone who wrote on this thread, as it helped me a lot in planning my visit to the monastery. Through God's wonderful ways, I will be able to visit the monastery next month, with a friend, and I could not be more grateful - especially because we will be there during the Great Lent. I wasn't even hoping that there would be available rooms on such short notice, but - glory be to God - they do have.

I would however have a question for those of you who happen to know this. We will stay at the monastery during one week, but on Saturday [and possibly Sunday] night they have no space. The Sunday Liturgy would be mostly important for our stay, especially because it is Saint Mary of Egypt's Sunday, so we risked and reserved our flight back on the following Monday, hoping to find some accomodation in Tolleshunt Knights. I have searched on the internet for such a possibility, but could find no B&B's listed. Is there a chance there are such options, but they do not have an internet advertisment? I was thinking that during the week that we are hosted at the monastery, we might enquire there and find something in Tolleshunt Knights or the nearby villages, but should you know of such a place [B&B or hostel], I would be very grateful if you could indicate an e-mail address or a phone number where I can reserve rooms in advance.

Thank you very much for the kindness to read this post.

Kusanagi

18-03-2011, 07:26 PM

I would however have a question for those of you who happen to know this. We will stay at the monastery during one week, but on Saturday [and possibly Sunday] night they have no space. The Sunday Liturgy would be mostly important for our stay, especially because it is Saint Mary of Egypt's Sunday, so we risked and reserved our flight back on the following Monday, hoping to find some accomodation in Tolleshunt Knights. I have searched on the internet for such a possibility, but could find no B&B's listed. Is there a chance there are such options, but they do not have an internet advertisment? I was thinking that during the week that we are hosted at the monastery, we might enquire there and find something in Tolleshunt Knights or the nearby villages, but should you know of such a place [B&B or hostel], I would be very grateful if you could indicate an e-mail address or a phone number where I can reserve rooms in advance.

Thank you very much for the kindness to read this post.

B&B in Kelvedon which is the nearest station to the monastery.

http://www.google.co.uk/search?sclient=psy&hl=en&site=&source=hp&q=B%26B+kelvedon&aq=f&aqi=g-m1g-v3&aql=&oq=&pbx=1&cad=cbv

B&B in Tolleshunt Knights

http://www.google.co.uk/search?sclient=psy&hl=en&site=&source=hp&q=B%26B+kelvedon&aq=f&aqi=g-m1g-v3&aql=&oq=&pbx=1&cad=cbv#sclient=psy&hl=en&source=hp&q=B%26B+tolleshunt+knights&aq=f&aqi=&aql=&oq=&pbx=1&fp=30b0f135803d42c7

Failing that you can try and see if any Romanians in London might house you short term.

Daniel R.

18-03-2011, 08:12 PM

Dear Miss Calinda,

Have you tried looking for B&Bs in Maldon or Whiham? they are only about 20 minutes away by taxi. Another idea is going to one of the near many caravan parks and catching a taxi from there.

RX Calinda

18-03-2011, 10:02 PM

Thank you very much for the quick and helpful answers. These informations actually helped me find locations I had not spotted before, some of which fit very well my distance/ rate wishes and I think I will be able to make a reasonable booking.
Many thanks and kind wishes,
Calinda

Brian Rowlands

18-03-2011, 10:18 PM

The local area does not have much to offer by way of accommodation for visitors. Some possibilities, if they are still open, all a few miles away from Tolleshunt Knights – but probably just a little too far for walking (especially should the weather be inclement!):

Fernleigh, 16 Woodrolfe Farm Lane, TOLLESBURY CM9 8SX
Tel/Fax: 01621 868245

Kestons Farm, Great Wigborough, COLCHESTER CO5 7RE
Tel: 01206 735298; www kestonsfarmbandb.co.uk

Highfields Farm, Highfields Lane, KELVEDON CO5 9BJ
Tel/Fax: 01376 570334; www highfieldsfarm.co.uk

Ransomes, Wigborough Road, Peldon, COLCHESTER CO5 7RA
Tel 01206 735166; www essexguesthouse.co.uk

The monastery may have knowledge of more suitable alternative accommodation.

Marinaki

21-03-2011, 10:37 AM

The monastery has a list of nearby B&B, I believe. It would be worth asking the guest sister if she could recommend anything. I do not believe they would be offended. People frequently stay in local B&B especially around Easter.

Eleftherios

25-04-2011, 02:14 AM

Getting Around the Monastery

Hello everyone, Christ has risen!

This site helped me a lot finding my way around the monastery so I thought I would post here my recent experience about how to find your way there in general especially if you can't get accommodation in the monastery. For me this plan worked great like this;

From Oxford bus to London Marble Arch and then by underground (only the Central line - no changes) to London Liverpool Street. From London Liverpool Street train to Kelvedon (trains run every about 30 minutes to Kelvedon) and after about 5 minutes walk I went to the B&B I had booked (The Swan House). Some people were hesitative about Kelvedon but I think it's not inconvinient at all. There is also a bus stop close to that B&B from where you can take the bus No 90 (I think) which can drop you off at the Top Road street - about 5 minutes walk to the Monastery (bus ticket single - 2 pounds). You can also ask the driver to show you where to get off and which path to take for the Monastery.

About my booking, I was late I couldn't find any accommodation inside the Monastery and I found that B&B on the internet. I was not totally happy with it (a bit stinky dogs and I got a notice from the hostess about using the shower too long - 60 pounds a night for a double bedroom).

For people that are interested in visiting Essex for a few days I would recommend the following by preference.

Accommodation;
1) Ask Sister Paula (for women) or Father Melchisedek (for men) for a room. If they are unable to offer any, ask them if they can help by proposing any nearby B&Bs
2) If they are still unable to help you, look for B&Bs yourselves (if you type "B&B near Tiptree" in google maps you'll come up with some results)
3) If you're still unable to find a place keep your faith and just go. You can have a small adventure looking for a place to stay around this area (not all of them can be found on the internet) but I'm sure Christ will help you find something!

Public Transportation Route from London;
1) Take the London Tube from Marble Arch to London Liverpool Street (Central line). If you take the tube from some other place you might need to change trains in some stops. Then take a train to Kelvedon. Trains run every 30 minutes to Kelvedon.
2) You can try Witham but it's a bit further away!

For telephone numbers and other stuff e.g when to call, check previous posts in this topic some of which are very helpful! For any other questions please send me pm!

The Monastery was so peaceful and cheerful, I didn't expect to like it so much. A great experience!

Olga Jarman

17-06-2011, 06:36 PM

Sorry, it seems, I'm a bit too late asking questions in this thread :)
Nevertheless, I'll try :))
How could I ger to the Monastery from Exeter? Do I necessarily have to get back to London first?

Brian Rowlands

17-06-2011, 10:13 PM

Sorry, it seems, I'm a bit too late asking questions in this thread :)
Nevertheless, I'll try :))
How could I get to the Monastery from Exeter? Do I necessarily have to get back to London first?

If travelling by train then yes: you would need to take a train from Exeter to London Paddington, then across town by bus, taxi, or underground train to London Liverpool Street where you can take a suburban train to any of the stations (Witham, Kelvedon, Colchester) close to the monastery, and then a bus or taxi. Total time about 6 hours.
This link: www.nationalrail.co.uk (http://www.nationalrail.co.uk) is useful for planning rail journeys.

If driving you could bypass London to the north, rather than going through, which might or might not save time (but would probably be more pleasant) or to the south, which would probably not save time, and would oblige you to use the river crossing (bridge/tunnel) at Dartford.

Coach services are probably even less direct than the train services, require more changes (and more waiting between connections) and possibly excrutiatingly uncomfortable when the journey lasts more than a few hours - which it would!

Jonathan Michael

08-08-2011, 04:55 PM

I appreciate that that is 2.30-4pm local time (presumably either GMT or BST depending on the time of the year) but it may give people who want to contact the Monastery a good idea when it is best for them to ring (apologies for those of you who are twelve hours ahead or twelve hours behind UK time)

That is the correct times to speak with Fr Father Melchizedek, for booking men's accommodation. For women, Sister Paula is available after 5pm to take calls.

Silvia

29-08-2011, 12:19 PM

Good afternoon,

With God's help i will be at an event in Cambridge and (St.Neots) on the 19-20 November this year and i really want to come to Essex to visit St.John the Baptist monastery, after the 20 November, so can anyone pls tell me which means of transportation are more appropiate and a maybe a route to follow from Cambridge to Essex...i"m thinking about trains and buses...also is there any mobile or local number i can contact Sister Paula?

Thank you very much and God bless us all!

Anthony Spyridon

29-08-2011, 02:19 PM

Hi Sylvia,

You need to get to Liverpool Street Station, London from Cambridge. At Liverpool Street, you get a train to Witham and once at Witham you need to take a taxi to Tolleshunt Knights / St John the Baptist monastery.

Telephone: (+44) (0) 1621 816 471

Anthony

Daniel R.

29-08-2011, 02:20 PM

Looking on Google and search result sites, I think there is a train from Cambridge to Witham and then a bus from there to Tolleshunt Knights where the monastery is. It should take just under 3 hours in total.

By taxi or (if you can drive hire car) should take just over 1 and a half hours.
In that case I would say follow the A1307/A1017 from Cambridge without turning of until it joins the A131.
Then follow the A131 until you reach a roundabou with a turning to Coggeshall A120 follow that road until a right hand turning for Coggeshall.
Once in Coggeshall turn by the white hart to Kelvedon, then at the T junction in Kelvedon turn left you shall then go on a bridge over the river.
When you come to a main turning on the right sign posted to Tiptree turn down it.
When you come into Tiptree turn right the left straight away down church road trough Tiptree.
Continue along the road out of Tiptree until you come to a min-roundabout with a turning for Salcott.
Following the road you should then arrive at Tolleshunt Knights where the monastery is.

This is only done by maps so you may still want local advice. If you go unto Google maps by dragging the little orange man onto each turning you can see what it looks like in real life using Street View.

Hope this is of some help.

In Christ.
Daniel,

Silvia

29-08-2011, 03:53 PM

Thank you both so much for the telephone and the other info, i truly hope to make it there. It was very nice and kind of you to help me as things are so crowded lately that is difficult to get good info all by myself, plus i have never been to those places so it is a bit unfamiliar...God bless us all!
Silvia

Cecilie Nielsen

29-08-2011, 11:50 PM

Hello all

I'm wondering if anyone can tell me how long it takes to get from Heathrow Airport by train to Liverpool Street Station and from there to Witham again by train? How long is the journey by taxi from Witham?

Thank you.

C

Anthony Spyridon

30-08-2011, 09:47 AM

Hi Cecilie

Heathrow to Liverpool Street is around 1hr 15 min. Liverpool Street to Witham is around 45 minutes. I believe the journey time from Witham to Tolleshunt Knights is approximately 20 - 30 minutes.

Hope this helps.

Anthony

Kusanagi

31-08-2011, 01:34 PM

Silvia

The train from Cambridge into London terminates at Liverpool Street. You can then take a train East to Witham or Kelvedon from Liverpool Street Station.
All taxi drivers know the monastery if you tell them take me to the monastery. Since you are in Cambridge it is worth visiting Crowland and Peakirk as well if time allows it. If you also join the Nepsis UK mailing list I think someone might be able to drive you there rather than take the train.

Cecilie

You can take the express from Heathrow to Paddington which should cut your journey time by at least 30 mins or so. and then take the circle line to Liverpool Street.