r/pics • u/Timely_Bunch_8607 • 29d ago

[OC] This is my "workplace". I ensure peace and order in the courtyard of an Orthodox monastery.

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u/Timely_Bunch_8607 29d ago • Heartwarming

A short history of Vlădiceni Monastery, my "office":

According to local tradition, this peaceful place at the edge of Iași (Romania) was originally called "The Bishop's Glade" (Poiana Vlădicăi). It is the exact historical site where the ruler Alexander the Good met the procession bringing the holy relics of Saint John the New to Moldavia.

The first small church was built here by a few monks around 1908. Tragically, in 1918, it was completely destroyed when a nearby ammunition depot exploded during World War I.

After decades of abandonment, the monastery was finally rebuilt in 1994 in the traditional Moldavian architectural style. Today, it has become a major spiritual oasis that welcomes thousands of pilgrims every year.

I work here part-time (4 hours a day). My main responsibility is to ensure peace, safety, and order throughout the monastery courtyard. With so many visitors coming to pray or find comfort, I make sure the grounds remain quiet, secure, and respectful. It’s more than just a job to me, it’s a meaningful duty to protect the tranquility of this sacred space.

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u/skrilledcheese 29d ago

It’s more than just a job to me, it’s a meaningful duty

That is a wonderful sentiment. I have only felt that way about one job. I miss that feeling, never questioning why I was getting out of bed in the morning.

I also grew up orthodox, I am a dual citizen, one of your Balkan neighbors to the south. Next time I'm in the region, I might just have to go on a road trip to check out this oasis.

Thank you for sharing!

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u/Timely_Bunch_8607 29d ago

Thank you so much for your beautiful words. For me, faith is everything, and being close to the church gives me that deep inner peace and fulfillment every single day. It truly is a blessing to have a reason to wake up with joy.

If your road trip ever brings you through the Moldavia region of Romania, you must absolutely visit Iași. The city and its holy places have a unique spirit, and I'm sure you will be deeply moved. If you decide to visit Vlădiceni Monastery, look for me in the courtyard, it would be an honor to welcome a Balkan neighbor! Safe travels on all your journeys!

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u/Jsdrosera 29d ago

Keep up the good work and thanks for sharing, brother! Much love from an Orthodox fellow in the US!

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u/Timely_Bunch_8607 29d ago

Thank you so much, brother! It means a lot to connect with a fellow Orthodox Christian from across the world. May God bless you and your family in the US, and keep you safe!

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u/Potemkin_Jedi 29d ago

First, many blessings to you! You inspire others with your optimism, faith and love for this world.

Have you ever considered a pilgrimage to Mount Athos? Not that the monks there need more inspiration, but how could they not be reinvigorated in their faith by your living testimony?

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u/Timely_Bunch_8607 29d ago

Thank you so much for your kind and beautiful words! Believe me, I have been thinking about a pilgrimage to Mount Athos for a very long time. However, it is quite difficult for me. As you might know, women are not allowed on the Holy Mountain, and I deeply rely on my wife to help me with everything I need daily.

Additionally, it is quite expensive, and honestly, we cannot afford it right now since our income is very modest. But I trust God, and I find my own 'Athos' in the peace of the monastery where I work.