We also take time each week to pray at least one Moleben for the living and one Panachyda for the dead, remembering those people for whom our prayers have been especially asked. Next to prayer comes our adherence to the ascetic discipline of fasting. We try to maintain the traditional Byzantine fasts as they fall on the calendar, and to abstain from meat and dairy products on Wednesdays and Fridays through the year. In asceticism we definitely try to follow a middle way, as befitting our humble position as monastics in formation. Perfection is our goal, and we always fall far short, and rely on the mercy of our Lord.
Hospitality is the logical extension of community life.
We try to offer a place of prayer and retreat for those who want it, together with Christian companionship, rest and food within the limits of our life and means. Finally, we have to look after the physical goods entrusted to our stewardship by the Almighty. We have to maintain our garden and buildings in the harsh desert environment. We have to cook, clean, answer mail, and so on. To ensure our financial viability we are prepared to experiment with small businesses compatible with our life.