21/05/2024 08:30 - 10:45

HALL: FATESI - MARCATAJO

Proponent: Kouremenos N.

Chair: Kouremenos N.

Speaker: Hovorun C., Kalaitzidis P., Kostarelos F., Kouremenos N., Moschos D.

While the presence of monasticism is generally considered a vital and integral part of Orthodox Christianity, contributing to the spiritual richness and continuity of the faith, some critics or alternative viewpoints may raise concerns about potential negative aspects. It would be argued that at some point during its historical course the emergence of gradual monasticisation took place within the Orthodox Church. The prevalence of the practice of electing bishops from the ranks of the monks since the Council in Trullo (end of 7th century), the dominance of the monastic rite over
the cathedral/asmatic rite in the liturgical life of the Church after iconoclasm, the emergence of the monastic practice of the prayer of Jesus as the exclusive model of Orthodox spirituality since the hesychast controversy in14th century, and the gradual generalisation of the rules of monastic fasting are some indicative examples of this process. The challenges facing the Orthodox Church in this regard are not only related to the past but also to the present. Certain monastic circles, from Mount Athos, the Balkans, and the Orthodox monastic communities in America, are emerging as centers of theological conservatism, preaching an over-emphasis on asceticism and elderism or promoting an anti-modern and anti-ecumenical agenda. The purpose of the panel is to discuss and asses the phenomenon of monasticisation both in its historical dimension and in its social and theological implications for the Orthodox Church and theology nowadays.