ˈstäˌrets noun
( plural star·tsy ˈstärtsē)
Etymology: Russian, literally, venerable old man, from staryĭ old — more at stour
: a spiritual director or religious teacher and counselor in the Eastern Orthodox Church : a spiritual advisor who is not necessarily a priest, who is recognized for his piety, and who is turned to by monks or members of the laity for spiritual guidance