Arab West Report Egyptian press summaries and media research for dialogue

The author starts his article with a brief account of the history of monasticism and its different forms among Christian denominations. He then moves on to focus on female monasticism and states that not every Christian female can easily become a nun, because the requirements set by the Orthodox Church are very harsh and cannot be applied except with 5% of those who seek the monastic life. In addition to these requirements, the novices have to spend three years on probation before becoming ordained nuns. In this period, they are charged with hard tests to prove their endurance and love for the life of asceticism. The author also refers to the role of Catholic nuns in Egyptian society and the different activities they undertake in the heath and educational fields.