Lilac and jasmine bushes, tall poplars, Orthodox domes, a vegetable garden with potatoes and pumpkins, a farm with goats, all this surrounds men in robes and hats. At first glance, it seems like Optina Pustyn or Valaam, but in reality, this is the Exaltation Monastery in Wayne County, West Virginia.

The monastery was founded in 1986 by Hieromonk Callistus. Over time, Americans who embraced Orthodoxy, Russian emigrants, and priests began to come here. Services were held according to Russian canons, although initially only in English. The monks aimed for self-sufficiency and in the 90s created a garden where they grew potatoes, tomatoes, pumpkins, onions, and garlic, just like at a typical Russian dacha. Later, they set up a small farm where they raised goats and treated guests to goat's milk, which was a true exotic for Americans.

Additionally, the monastery has a beehive that not only provides honey but also yields wax for candles. The influence of the Russian-speaking emigration is noticeable: summer camps for children are held here, where teenagers work in the gardens and farms, study the Bible, and learn the Russian language. At Easter, the monastery bakery bakes kulich and decorates it according to Russian traditions, and Christmas is celebrated on January 7. Many tourists come here not only for the 'Americano-Russian' exotic but also to pray and connect with Orthodox culture.