Monastic Schemas

The steps an Orthodox monk or nun goes through in their religious vocation are schemas or degrees of monasticism. 

The Eastern Orthodox Church deliberately takes time with the monastic ordination process since the vows taken are seen as a lifetime commitment to God. Before acquiring the monastic habit, a person must complete three degrees, or steps, in the preparation process. First, there is the Novice stage, followed by the Rasophore (the Robe-bearer) and the Stavrophore (the Cross-bearer) stages, ultimately leading to the highest degree of the spiritual path, the Great Schema. 

The various monastic schemas are represented by different symbols and clothing that the monks wear. There are also variations according to the orientation of the monasteries.