Igumen Chariton (1872–1947)

This isn't actually a work all its own but a selection of quotes from various Church Fathers and a few others, and especially St. Theophan the Recluse, on the Jesus Prayer and on related topics of Orthodox spirituality. The selections are, of course, fantastic. The book is filled from cover to cover with practical advice from our holy fathers and mothers on how to pursue a more intimate relationship with our Lord, God, and Savior Jesus Christ. I recommend it very much to those interested in either trying to understand Orthodox spirituality or who would themselves like to deepen their spiritual life.… (más)

Prayer has always fascinated me, confused me and/or bored me. (Confession--I hate public prayers, even though I do many.)

This book takes the reader far beyond prayer that is more like sitting on Santa's lap than communicating with the Almighty. Contemplative prayer, the Jesus prayer, and other types are discussed by true "prayer warriors" who are Colin Powells compared the privates who often use that term.

The modern church did not invent prayer, and it behooves us to move beyond the usually stumblebutt or performance prayers we have taken as the real and only thing.

Any Christian who wants to deepen their prayer life can appreciate this book.… (más)