The Brotherhood of the Theotokos, ‘the Sign’ was founded in 2023 with the blessing of His Eminence Metropolitan Jean of Dubna of the Archdiocese of Orthodox Churches of Russian Tradition in Western Europe.

While the term ‘monk’ (from Greek, monachos) refers primarily to being unmarried (hence, ‘solitary’ or ‘single’), the members of the Brotherhood of the Theotokos understand their life more broadly as a vocation to singularity of purpose—namely, ever deeper incorporation into Christ. This calling is pursued through a balance of corporate worship and personal prayer, alongside work, hospitality, and pastoral service.

The rule of prayer and ascesis followed by the monks is shaped with particular reference to the ascetic tradition practiced in Egypt, Palestine, and Syria from the third to eighth centuries. In weekly shared reading and reflection, the study of the seminal texts of early Christian asceticism is approached with particular care and reverence.

“Delight not only in speaking of the fathers’ deeds, but seek to make yourself a doer of their great labours!”

-Evagrius of Pontus

The Brotherhood’s primary obediences are academic work and pastoral care for the local Orthodox Community of the Transfiguration of Christ. Their academic work involves research and teaching at the University of Regensburg, with a focus on liturgical history and theology. In their pastoral ministry, the monks guide the development of the local parish—presiding at services, directing the choir, and providing counseling and catechesis. Beyond these local duties, the Brotherhood engages in a wider ministry of catechesis and pastoral counsel  to English- and German-speaking Orthodox Christians and inquirers throughout Germany.

The liturgical life of the community follows the Russian tradition and includes the daily celebration of Vespers and Matins, as well as the Divine Liturgy on weekends and feasts. Particular emphasis is placed on the comprehensibility of the offices and the careful reading in full of the psalmody, which is the common core of all Christian monastic prayer.