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Monastic Life Rekindled in Secular Estonia
24 Jul
Summary
- Estonia's first new monastery in decades established by Orthodox Church.
- Monastery offers global prayers, seeking spiritual quality over numbers.
- Young Estonians show growing interest in religion and monastic life.
The Kirikla Orthodox Monastery, established last year, marks the first new male monastic community for the Estonian Apostolic Orthodox Church in over 80 years. Nestled within a farmhouse near Tallinn, the monastery's two monks, Bishop Damaskinos and Rev. Paisios, are dedicated to daily prayers and spiritual work, extending their intentions globally.
Despite Estonia's secular nature, a growing interest in religion among young people is observed, offering a chance for religious communities. These young visitors are drawn to the monastic lifestyle's simplicity and escape from constant digital engagement. The monks follow a disciplined routine of prayer and labor, inspired by traditions from Mount Athos, Greece.
While other monastic communities exist in Estonia, the founding of Kirikla Monastery is a heartening development. Bishop Damaskinos prioritizes building a strong spiritual brotherhood over the monastery's physical infrastructure, ensuring its continuation for future generations. The monastery also welcomes visitors and pilgrims to share their unique way of life.
