Michael A said "One could just as easily say that because we are called to live as Orthodox Christians all the time anyway, monasticism is unnecessary, but I doubt that anybody would make that claim. "
no one says that monasticism isnt necessary, and I never "SIMPLY" say Im called to live as an Orthodox Christian...you would be very surprised at the many numbers of people that do live a Strong Orthodox life, and for me Orthodox is a great struggle, although I am not living a monastic life- the only difference is my relaxed prayer rule, and working and everyday contact with the world... you either are a monastic or you are not, that is the Simpleness of it- Black and White , neither is greater
but both are called to do their part as Orthodox Christians, that is why there is no need for it. if you notice and look at the figures of the latin church, monasticism compared to laity is very off scaled, this is no secret that many assume they can take on the role of monaticism in the world as a third order member- thus the lack of latin church monasterys are low ,compared to the number of laity.
the sad thing is ,that instead of taking up one
s Cross in a monastery , it has been replaced with the incidious thought the one can let the world pick up and help you with your cross ,as a third order member...
and this isnt a debate this is two people discussing the difference, as Ive discussed this already with monastic Orthodox, and there reply was that it wasnt necessary if we lived an Orthodox life, we are already Blessed and close to God and the monastic life is also Blessed and close to God...