March 29, 2012
Wayne, WV: Bishop George tonsured two new rassophore monks at Holy Cross Monastery

On Tuesday morning, March 27, on the feast day of St. Benedict of Nursia, upon completion of the regular Great Lenten services, His Grace George, Bishop of Mayfield, tonsured two new rassophore monks at Holy Cross Monastery: novices Aaron and Anthony. In the rassophore, Brother Anthony received the name Hilarion, in honor of the new-martyr St. Hilarion of Verey.

Upon completion of the rite of tonsure, Bishop George addressed the newly tonsured monks with a word of instruction, in which he encouraged them to use the life of St. Benedict as an example, and be especially fervent and zealous as they begin their monastic struggle. He urged them to lay a good foundation to their monastic life, warning them that if they do not confront and overcome their passions when they are young, they will struggle with them the rest of their lives.

Tonsure to the rank of rassophore monk is the first step of monasticism. At his tonsure the novice receives a riassa and cowl (klobuk), and is sometimes given a new name, although the new monk does not yet take his monastic vows. Those tonsured to wear the riassa are called "rassophore." All monastic clothing, with its black color and artlessness, reminds one of a humble, solitary, unacquisitive life, lived in repentance for one’s sins.

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