Guidance toward spiritual life

Desert Fathers from sixth-century Palestine, Ss. Barsanuphius and John were sought after by monastics and laity alike for spiritual counsel, being asked questions that were very like those asked by Christian strugglers from today. Their answers expose the nature of the vices – false humility, cold-hearted calculation, judgment, idleness, lack on inward vigilance, carnal thoughts, and vainglory – and show the way to overcoming them and acquiring virtue. The love of the Elders for their disciples comes through on every page; with Divine vision the Elders see their souls, and the salvation of these souls in their only concern in offering guidance. Also included are selected passages from the Spiritual Homilies of St. Macarius the Great of Egypt.