Initially, the institution of the Elder was connected with the monastic life. Each novice monk, as a "subordinate," had his Elder, that is, an experienced and wise older monk who guided him in the ascetic life. He owed absolute obedience to him.
In recent decades, the term Elder has been used with a different meaning than the above. Because it was given to monks or hieromonks whose spiritual influence extended to Christians outside their Monasteries or Hermitages. Even to married priests, whose godly life, actions, and gifts were accepted and admired by their flock.
In this Series, the life of such a person is condensed into a few pages in each issue, so that the reader can finally understand what ultimately classifies him in the ranks of the "Contemporary Elders."