Embracing the Journey: From Episcopal Roots to the Orthodox Faith

The question often arises, “What is life like at a monastery?” The answer is simple: you fall down and you get back up; you fall down and you get back up; you fall down and you get back up; you fall… All I can say is, “Me too!” That speaks volumes about my journey.

I’ve traversed through various churches to arrive at where I am in the Orthodox Church. Raised in the Episcopal Church, confirmed in it, attended an evangelical boy’s camp, made a profession of faith, and went on to an Independent Fundamentalist Church. Later, I pursued studies at an evangelical Bible College (Philadelphia College of Bible, now Cairn University) with a major in missions. Subsequently, I began seminary in a similar evangelical setting but graduated from a Presbyterian Seminary (Faith Theological Seminary, M.Div.).

In my quest for a church home, I explored numerous churches, delving into their doctrines and polities. Ordained in 1988 in the Bible Presbyterian Church, I later embarked on my own venture after leaving the church. I traveled among smaller Presbyterian groups and eventually ventured into Anglicanism, Old Catholicism, Roman Catholicism, and finally, the Orthodox Church.

It has been humorously said to me that “Orthodoxy is the last stop to nowhere,” a statement both amusing and true. After witnessing so much, it becomes evident that there is nowhere else to go! However, when one grasps the Orthodox faith, they realize it is truly the True Church—a sentiment shared by others. It’s like the “Pearl of Great Price,” a profound realization that solidifies one’s faith in the authenticity of the Orthodox Church.

Personal Background

Before my life as a hieromonk, I was a single parent of six children and am now blessed with eight grandchildren. I homeschooled my children before they ventured into the world. Today, my primary focus has shifted to spiritual pursuits and the life of the monastery.

Work Experience

Like many ministers, I have been bi-vocational throughout my life. I’ve worked various blue-collar jobs, including many years as a handyman and a career with the US Postal Service, where I am now semi-retired due to disability.

Christian Service

My service has spanned many roles, from youth work as a Sunday school teacher and camp counselor to short-term missionary work in Japan and Uganda. My journey has also involved outdoor evangelism, radio broadcasts, and pastoral roles primarily within house churches, allowing me to engage with the public in unique ways.

Goals and Vision

My vision is to magnify the Lord’s work, fostering spiritual growth (theosis) among church members and spreading the Gospel globally. I aspire to establish the foundations of our faith—monasteries, convents, churches, and seminaries—and I invite others to join in this mission.

In Closing

This brief introduction highlights my commitment to God’s glory in all I do, acknowledging His saving grace. May God richly bless you!

Father Boniface+