The Ladder of Divine Ascent is a foundational work of Orthodox asceticism and it is one of the few universal classics of world spirituality. It is the inspiration from a renowned icon, pictured along with this article, and it lent its name to its author, St John of Sinai, more commonly known as St John Climacus or St John of the Ladder. Although it was written originally for … [Read more...] about Selections from The Ladder of Divine Ascent
Monasticism
Saint Seraphim of Sarov on the Acquisition of the Holy Spirit: A Conversation with Motovilov
Part I. Source: Orthodox Christianity. Reprinted with permission. An example of the grace of the Holy Spirit at work within the life and words of St. Seraphim of Sarov has been preserved for us. In November of 1831, a pious Orthodox Christian named Nicholas Motovilov met with Saint Seraphim, and recorded his conversation. Nilus wrote the following … [Read more...] about Saint Seraphim of Sarov on the Acquisition of the Holy Spirit: A Conversation with Motovilov
St. Paisios: How the Jesus Prayer Differs from the Hindu Mantra
Source: Agape en Xristou Excerpt from: The Gurus, Young Man, and Elder Paisios By Dionysios Farasiotis One of the greatest spiritual gifts that Elder Paisios gave me was his guidance along the mystical path of the Jesus Prayer. This started at the beginning of our acquaintance and continued until his repose twelve years later. The Jesus Prayer consists of the … [Read more...] about St. Paisios: How the Jesus Prayer Differs from the Hindu Mantra
Kontakion for the Holy Theophany
By St. Romanos the Melodist Today you have appeared to the whole world, and your light, O Lord, has made a sign upon us who, with knowledge, sing your praise, “You have come, you have appeared, the unapproachable Light.” In Galilee of the Gentiles, in the country of Zebulon and the land of Nepthali, as the prophet said, a great light has shone—Christ … [Read more...] about Kontakion for the Holy Theophany