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The St. Paisius Missionary School began in the early 1990's as an effort to help awaken in newly converted American Orthodox Christians a zeal to live the traditional Orthodox way of life. Being formed in a pluralistic and secular society, the American soul needed exposure to a more direct and intense experience of Orthodox ascesis and piety than was readily available in today's culture. The Missionary School addressed this need by developing events, in a monastic setting, through which Orthodox Christians could immerse themselves in the atmosphere of a traditional Orthodox way of life. By leaving behind the secular world for a weekend, a week, or even a month, Orthodox Christians were offered a variety of programs which engaged the whole person, body, mind, and soul, towards Orthodox piety. Included in each event was a daily cycle of prayer, a celebration of feasts and fasts, lectures on various aspects of Orthodox way of life, common work and meals, edifying readings, and Christian fellowship. Living in a monastic community, even for a few days, and being instructed daily in the Orthodox way of life, helped to deepen the newly Orthodox in their faith and strengthen them in their own ability to live an Orthodox life in the American culture. The teaching at these events focused on helping the Orthodox Christian understand and embrace the patristic Orthodox world view, discern the errors of modern thought and philosophy, actively live the liturgical life of the Church, and understand the elements of Christian arts and civilization which provide an alternative to the modern secular society. Those who have attended the programs have found a greater confidence to speak to others about their faith and many have been inspired to start missionary outreaches in their own local parishes and communities. The Missionary School developed year round programs and conferences and attendance grew from year to year.