The most important help is your prayer for us, that our Lord Jesus Christ who was crucified on the Cross would bless our monastery by planting a spiritual seed that would benefit the monastic life and those who are called to dedicate their life to Christ, as well as those who are searching for the true faith, so that they might be blessed and anchored in hope, faith and love for their salvation.

In the Orthodox world the monasteries existed mostly because of the generosity of the pious and devoted Christian rulers, wealthy faithful and many others, who, as an offer of thanksgiving for their prayers and victories, would establish churches and monasteries, each according to their own means, for the glory of God. Unfortunately, in America this is not the tradition; therefore, we have to make sure that the monasteries will be self sufficient.

The monasteries are spiritual cradles where services and prayers are served on a daily basis. The monastic motto is pray and work which is the thrust of the spiritual life, "Liturgy after Liturgy", because you try to focus your mind on the spiritual desire of salvation by practicing the prayer of heart or as we know it as the Jesus Prayer: "0 Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner."

Like at the beginning of every new project, it is very difficult to accomplish all that is needed in order to establish a monastic community that will be able to make known the Orthodox faith, to reach out to those who are searching for the faith, to enlighten those who are in the faith, and to comfort those who are struggling spiritually and morally, and bring them peace and comfort in their life. When we are filled with the grace of God and enriched by His joy, the spark from that humility which our Lord showed us on the Cross, enables us to achieve our goals and to grow step by step in faith.

You should be aware that in Orthodox countries when Christian believers hear about the establishment of a church, especially of a holy monastery - which doesn’t happen very often - they want to become founders. Actually they strive to become the founders of at least 7 churches because this is considered part of the 7 virtues which lead us towards salvation.

As we realize that the prayers and good will of our parents are the foundation of our life, we need more then ever prayers for our loved ones and for ourselves. Unfortunately, in many instances in our society, many children left the church or the Orthodox faith, and no longer remember their loved ones in prayer; others have no one left to pray for them. However, you, as a founder of the monastery, will be remembered until the end of this world.

By helping us, you will be establishing an Orthodox spiritual center where those who will visit Niagara Falls will be inspired by our spiritual treasure. Please help us to achieve our goals as we are in desperate need of funds. In addition, we need people skilled in roofing, plumbing, heating, electrical work, flooring or even good handy men who would be willing to dedicate their time and services to work on the monastery grounds.

We have been truly blessed by those who have given of their time, talents and hard work, and have come great distances to help. (lncluded are some pictures of these dedicated workers.)

Donations of construction materials, windows, doors, appliances, furniture, etc. are also very much needed. For more information please contact Father Nicholas at (716)940-2557or by E-mail: monastery@holycross-niagarafalls.org.  

God willing, when our goal of the monastery project will be reached and when our facilities will be restored, our mission will be fulfilled. Please help us to make our vision a reality.

Glory to Jesus Christ!

Glory Forever!