On Campus WOTI Students - Monastics (Monks living on premise)
This special notice is primarily for those who wish to consider living "On Campus" as students of WOTI as well as those who wish to become monks in this jurisdiction.
We will not beat around the bush. Life here is harsh! There is no getting around that fact! Weather is harsh because we reside in the High Desert area of New Mexico. Columbus, New Mexico is 4050 feet above sea level. We are located 3 to 4 miles from the Border of Mexico.
Life here is close to that of the Egyptian Desert Fathers although we are, in these modern times, residing in mobile homes or trailers and 5th wheels for some. We are advancing or progressing here in that, while slow, we are developing an area for helping abused women who have children, with the help of other organizations.
Yet, the main factor here is ON THE JOB TRAINING! In
spite of the fact that most students receive their courses either through the
U.S. Mail or via Internet, the bottom line is that residents are involved in ON
THE JOB TRAINING to deal with advocacy action to help those women, to help those
who are in distress because of what is going on both the locally and through out the U.S.A.
more and more!
These ON THE JOB TRAINING programs involve learning a bit about legal matters,
both for clergy and the people. Why? Because when knowledge is
gained, we who are the servants of Jesus Christ and the people need to become
more fully aware, as much as possible, of and about the ordinances and laws that
govern the people in civil life. This means that you, if you become an "On
Campus" or "Resident" will need to participate in all these things insofar as
one can possibly be involved as a means to increase your knowledge.
Courses are developed and provided by numerous resources which only RESIDENTS of the "On Campus" program can obtain. None of these particular courses are provided off campus!
Those seeking a monastic life where prayer, meditation become a necessity for spiritual growth, none-the-less, monks also become the eventual teachers of those who may come to us later on in time.
Normally, one would think that, like Father Seraphim Rose of blessed memory, would be involved in such that cuts one off from the world, living without electricity or running water and other amenities normally enjoyed by most in life today.
We, though, while striving toward Orthodox Spirituality more and more... learning even more by our endeavor to reach out to those destitute and desperate for the fruit of both the spiritual life and those who struggle in civil life; we use the life and teachings of the ancient Desert Fathers' insight into human nature and openness to God. An example would be the life of St. Mary of Egypt who who showed the hope of change for someone caught in their passions, but made it clear that getting free was a process and not a "quick fix".
As we progress, we use such material as The Way of the Pilgrim, the Jesus Prayer and The Philokalia. The Northern Thebaid which, according to some is like passing through a house, being introduced in each room to some of the most amazing treasures of the Church.
Yet, in our struggle, we also teach such that aides in Advocacy Training, Services, Liturgy and much more.
There is physical labor too. It is not all about just reading, discussion, etc. It is combined with daily works both on premise and off.
Our daily life is nothing special! But to us who live it, it is very special, interesting and filled with such that only those on a spiritual quest can find which is a miracle in itself as each day upon another day adds to our inner growth, even with its own pitfalls.
Outside employment is not easy to come by in this area. One has to create their own skills, of sorts, if there is no immediate income.
Residing on premise does require a form of tithing in order to support the community, along with the schedule of daily life.
Yet, life itself is a blessing and we find ourselves very blessed in many, many ways that words cannot describe for our life has to be breathed and lived in order to grasp those miniscule moments of the refreshing breeze which is Orthodox.
We do not encourage any one with serious physical limitations to undertake this life.
Our small parcel of land does not look like much, but time and daily work provides for growth both spiritually and materially. Those who come to us will be the hands and hearts of growth. This endeavor, if you decide to partake and participate in it is, as said, an ON THE JOB TRAINING Program... As all spiritual and most material pursuits are!
Advance notification and registration required...
As of October 7th, the area code "505" will change to "575"... should you telephone us at: 531-0021.