The story is told of a monk, a discicple, who was thirsty and at the edge of a body of salt water. He asked his elder to pray that the water would be made sweet, and by the prayers of the elder, the water was made sweet. After drinking his fill, he began to fill a bottle with water. The elder asked him, "What are you doing?" and when the disciple answered, reproved him, saying, "God is everywhere."

I am somewhat the monk who needed a reproof. I have been trying for maybe a decade to get to a monastery where I could receive long-term medical care for a serious condition. I went to Mount Athos, but couldn't stay, and am now glad for the fact that I couldn't stay, as a schism has occurred and we are not in communion. I've made multiple attempts to get to Holy Russia, but they've all gone dead, and now due to Covid I cannot reach there. The door is potentially open to Ukraine, but nothing has materialized yet.

Meanwhile, I have visited a monastery in Michigan, in the Upper Peninsula, and found several things I wasn't expecting, including care for which pharmaceutical drugs are a supplement. I have in the past experienced significant spiritual healing through repentance, and the hieromonk is willing to work with me there.

I am presently trying to raise $400 for the next round trip, and get over as soon as I could. That would let me take steps in discernment before, God willing, becoming a monk. I also found, to my surprise, that there is a good possibility I would be able to work towards my studies at the Archdiocesan seminary, and possibly reach my dream of helping form priests.

Would you be willing to make a small donation?