Ancient Church History 5BC-AD 590 Part 18
The Christianity of The Cloisters
Michael Ryan Stotler
Part of Ancient Church History—5:BC-AD 590
January 10, 2023

THE CHRISTIANITY OF THE CLOISTERS

THE CAUSES OF MONASTICISM

THE DEVELOPMENT OF MONASTICISM


At first, ascetic practices were carried on by many within the church.

Many later withdrew from society to live as anchorites or hermits.

The holiness of these hermits attracted others, who would then take up residence in nearby caves and look to them for leadership in what was called a laura.

A cloister for common exercises might be built. In the final stage organized communal life within a monastery appeared.

In The East

Anthony (ca. 251–ca. 356)


Simon the Stylite (ca. 390–459)


Pachomius (ca. 290–346)


Basil of Caesarea (ca. 330–79)

In the West

What Do You Think of Monistaries?