As there is no healthy plant without roots, there can be no life of prayer without the sacraments, especially Holy Eucharist. For, as Abba Apollos says, "He who withdraws from communing the Sacred Mysteries, causes God Himself to withdraw from him." It is customary for monks to complete prayers begun in their cell when they have gathered in church. And common prayers started in church are completed in their cells. The sacrament of the Holy Eucharist, in which they participated during the Divine Liturgy is continued on the sacred altar of their hearts with ongoing prayer.
+Hieromonk Moses of Mount Athos, from Athonite Flowers, The Life of Prayer.
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