ABSTRACT
The Free Monks is a Greek rock band of black-robed Orthodox monks from the Brotherhood of Saint Augustine and Seraphim of Sarov. Through their music and social activities, they aim to interact and engage actively with Greek youth. This chapter outlines the general significance of the Free Monks for Greek Orthodoxy that was published in Sociology of Religion. It considers the social work of the Brotherhood and its progression into the domain of contemporary pop and rock music within the context of the church's efforts to rejuvenate Greek Orthodoxy and reach out to Greek youth. The chapter also focuses at the social meaning behind their work, more particularly their religious beliefs and social outlook in the context of globalization. It then briefly situates the Free Monks within the international world of faith-based music, including Christian contemporary music and music inspired by other faiths.
