The new direction: Antiochian monasticism in America

(antiochian.org) - This summer at the Summer Meetings at the Antiochian Village in Ligonier, Pennsylvania, His Eminence Metropolitan Joseph announced the new Antiochian Women Project for 2014-2015 which will incorporate his vision for the Antiochian Archdiocese well into the future. Over the next year, the Antiochian Women will work towards "Nurturing the Seeds of Orthodoxy Across North America".

The Project is two-fold:

• "Regional Camping and Learning Centers" – His Eminence's vision is to offer Orthodox programs throughout all of North America and the ultimate establishment of facilities to house these events.
• "Monastic Communities" – The vision is to make Antiochian Orthodox monastic communities prevalent across our continent.

Throughout our work on this Project, let us recall the parable of the mustard seed where Jesus said, "To what shall we liken the kingdom of God? ... It is like a mustard seed which, ... when it is sown, it grows up and becomes greater than all herbs, and shoots out large branches, so that the birds of the air may nest under its shade." (Mark 4:30-32.)

We as Antiochian Women must help to nurture these mustard seeds, and Orthodoxy, across North America.

We would urge you to read the full description of the Project (PDF), and then download the promotional poster (PDF) to be shared with the contact person at your church or mission. Please ask the women to display the poster in a prominent place and to start planning events that will highlight our Project: "Nurturing the Seeds of Orthodoxy Across North America".

Also remember that March is "Antiochian Women's Month". More information will be forthcoming, but we recommend that you start the planning and fundraising for this Project now. Most importantly, everyone in the parish – men, women and children – should know about the Project.