The Desert Fathers were the first Christian monks, living in solitude in the deserts of Egypt, Palestine, and Syria. In contrast to the formalized and official theology of the "founding fathers" of the Church, they were ordinary Christians who chose to renounce the world and live lives of celibacy, fasting, vigil, prayer, and poverty in direct and simple response to the gospel. First recorded in the fourth century, their Sayings—consisting of spiritual advice, anecdotes, parables, and reflections on life—influenced the rule of St. Benedict, set the pattern for Western monasticism, and have inspired centuries of poetry, opera, and art.
Thanks for this, it's on order.
ReplyDeleteThe preview on Amazon strikes me as the works of people very close to Thomas Aquinas and even earlier the Stoics. I really need this kind of balance right now.
I studied at a Benedictine seminary for three years. What a blessing that was and still is.
ReplyDeleteIt's great.
ReplyDeleteAlso pick up St. Athanasius's bio on St. Anthony of the Desert...a classic. They were good friends....can you imagine being a fly on the cave wall during one of their conversations?
And St. Mary of Egypt...awe inspiring story!....story here.....
GREAT site btw...look up anything by Chris Check there...outstanding!)...
https://instituteofcatholicculture.org/events/the-way-of-the-desert