Orthodox Monastery: A Sociocultural Phenomenon through the Ages

The article is devoted to the role of Orthodox monasteries as centers of spiritual life in Russian society. We have analyzed economic, educational, moral, and missionary aspects of Orthodox monasteries' activities using the example of Holy Trinity Selenginsky Monastery, Posolsky Holy Transfiguration Monastery, and Sretensky Convent in Buryatia. It is shown that monasteries not only fulfill religious functions but also serve as centers of economic, educational, and cultural life, contributing to the strengthening of national identity, spiritual and moral development of society. We also have considered the stages of the monastic path, the forms of monastic life, and the impact of Christianization on the local population. Monasticism remains an integral part of Russian Christian culture.