1.0.1 - A statement of Darius' intention for this blog

St Stephen's Monastery, Greece
The monastery at Meteora in Trikala region, Greece

Why monasticism?

The Edict of Milan in 313 AD ended the persecution of Christians, but also elevated Christianity to a status of protection and favor within the Roman Empire. This shift allowed Christians to worship freely, emerging from the secrecy and danger they had faced for centuries. However, as Christian leaders gained influence, there arose concerns over the growing secularism and corruption within the church, leading devout believers to seek a purer expression of faith outside mainstream church structures.

This led to the rise of the monastic movement, where Christians sought to embody their faith through rigorous asceticism. Initially inspired by the Eastern tradition, the movement found a stronghold in the West as well, with men and women adopting lives of strict devotion. Monastics rejected worldly comforts to focus on prayer, charity, teaching, and evangelism, often leading lives of extreme simplicity or isolation—whether in caves, cemeteries, or atop pillars as stylites.

The monastic movement represented a shift toward a disciplined, immersive faith, as devoted men and women sought to cultivate a life that reflected their spiritual convictions beyond the influence of a society increasingly intertwined with power and prestige.

My Journey

Back in 2019, a similar movement was happening in the world; governments of the world had taken upon themselves a new level of power. The arrogance and corruption which accompanied this change led to a personal desire to retreat from the world.

The obfuscated exercisers of power in Jersey provided me with the opportunity to offer service to my community by fulfilling a specific niche within their nefarious plan. In acting out that part in their show, I have been given the opportunity to make truly deep and lasting change for the betterment of my community, in due course. I was also able for four years, to adhere to a monastic lifestyle.

In 2024, I left the monastery, and re-entered a world which had changed beyond recognition, yet had not changed at all. I too had changed, the simple act of making space in my life has resulted in a deeper spiritual gnosis.

Through this blog, I will explore that journey. You are welcome to come along.


The Monastery at La Moye, Jersey
Location: Saint Clement, Jersey

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