Orthodox Christian Great Schema Monk attends Divine Worship

Orthodox Church has only 2 degrees in monasticism. After completing novice period, at the rite of tonsure, novice becomes monk (Schema), but if monk achieves great spiritual growth, mostly at old age, monk is given the dignity and service of Great Schema (Great Monk). Great Schemas are monks who must imitate angels. to attempt complete distancing from sin and passions. Great Schemas are allowed to isolate themselves from the monastic communities, so they can focus completely on prayer and fasting. Great Schemas wear “armors“ that help them drive away demons. If the Great Schema is agile and healthy, he will live in the woods, caves and huts, and come back to the monastery only to receive Sacraments.