“Physical separation for a time can be—if we are wise—an opportunity to reflect on the nature of our relationships at a deeper level. The words of St. Paul ring out loud: “…what can separate us form the love of God? Neither tribulations, nor distress… ” By physically separating themselves for a time, as we learn from the reading of the lives of the saints, some have acquired such grace, as to become chosen vessels of the Holy Spirit, through whom God has worked miracles.

The current situation has many of us asking many questions: how long will this last? When will we be able to welcome pilgrims again? Are we living Apocalyptic times? Is this the end of times! Let us remember when the apostles were troubled and asked Christ “…when will these things be? ” (Mark 13:3), the Lord told them not to be concerned with the end of times, but rather “…watch and pray for you do not know when the time is ” (Marc 13:33)..

As Father Roman, of blessed memory, says in his sermon on 08/16/09, our only care and concern should be how to live every moment of our life in keeping the commandments and becoming more and more like Christ. Otherwise, at the day of Judgement, we may hear—God forbid— “I don’t know you ”!    Let us take courage and continue to have hope in the things to come, by showing love to our neighbor, and be good stewards of the gifts God has entrusted us with, be it teaching, preaching, distributing material goods, encouraging and praying for one another and for the entire world.”

– Burning Bush newsletter of Dormition Monastery in Rives Junction

**We are pleased to include writings from modern American Monasteries from time to time as well as our traditional Elders**