Category Archives: Desert Fathers

Like the Angels

Posted on November 1, 2015 by Administrator

‘John has become an angel, and henceforth he is no longer among men.’ Then the other begged him saying, ‘It is I.’ However, his brother did not let him in, but left him there … Continue reading →

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A frog with the water

Posted on October 18, 2015 by Administrator

sometimes without noticing it bring up a frog with the water, and so in acquiring the virtues we often get involved in the vices that are imperceptibly entwined with them. Continue reading →

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The Kingdom of Heaven

Posted on October 11, 2015 by Administrator

but the immediate aim or goal, is purity of heart….let us direct our course as straight towards it as possible, Continue reading →

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Comfort Yourself

Posted on July 12, 2015 by Administrator

VI.iv.7. Again, a brother asked, “If a man beats his servant because of the things he has done wrong, what should that servant say?” The old man replied, “If he is a good servant he will say, ‘Forgive me, I’ve … Continue reading →

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Three Good Books

Posted on June 21, 2015 by Administrator

Tell me what I ought to do: keep them for my use and that of the brethren, or sell them and give the money to the poor? Continue reading →

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How do some fall?

Posted on May 31, 2015 by Administrator

9. Question. How do some fall after the visitation of grace? Is not Satan shown to be much the weaker? Where it is day, how can there be night?  Answer. It is not that grace is quenched or feeble; but … Continue reading →

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Washing his feet

Posted on May 17, 2015 by Administrator

184. Abba Isaac came to see Abba Poemen and found him washing his feet. As he enjoyed freedom of speech with him he said, ‘How is it that others practice austerity and treat their bodies hardly?’ Abba Poemen said to … Continue reading →

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Doctrine of Christ

Posted on April 19, 2015 by Administrator

38. Contrition is one thing, self-knowledge is another, humility is another.  39. Contrition is the result of a fall. He who falls is crushed and stands in prayer without boldness but with praiseworthy persistence, as one who is shattered, steadying … Continue reading →

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The kinds of trials

Posted on March 29, 2015 by Administrator

We find, it is true, a fourth way also in which we know on the authority of Scripture that some sufferings are brought upon us simply for the manifestation of the glory of God and His works, according to these … Continue reading →

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Lasting Purity of Heart

Posted on March 15, 2015 by Administrator

for if it be not constantly: fixed before our eyes, it will not only make all our toils vain and useless, and force them: to be endured to no purpose and without any reward, but it will also excite all kinds of thoughts Continue reading →

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