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Monasticism/Monastic Life

Faith Q&A › Metropolitan Youssef › The Church › Monasticism/Monastic Life

The question

I have been contemplating monastic life. My mother is totally against it arguing that I could serve God more and better in the world bringing the lost sheep back to our Lord Jesus Christ. I am praying about it. Could Your Grace please advise me?

The answer

Wherever you are, you can serve the Lord. The world needs both monks and servants. The Monks are like Moses praying on the mountain and the servants are like Joshua fighting Amalek (Exodus 17:8-13). Please note verse 11 "and it came to pass, when Moses held up his hand, that Israel prevailed: and when he let down his hand, Amalek prevailed." In the same way the monks are supporting the servants in the world with their prayers. So as long as you are now in the world serve Him with gladness. Strive to be close to the Lord and continue on building a strong relationship with Him. Keep all the options before you, and in due time God will guide you to what He has planned for you.

Answered by His Eminence Metropolitan Youssef (opens in a new tab)

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Questions answered by His Eminence Metropolitan Youssef (opens in a new tab) of the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern United States. Question 911 on the Diocese’s Q&A site. Questions and answers © Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern United States. All rights reserved.