Letters of Spiritual Direction to a Young Soul - Letter Twenty-eight Part II and Letter Twenty-nine Part I

Philokalia Ministries

In our discussion of letter 28 and 29 with St. Theophan, we learn that the embrace of the life of Grace is not something that is done by impulse or passively but involves an unyielding decision to give oneself over to the pursuit of it, enkindling the desire for it, laboring to maintain it and helping it bear fruit. We must see Grace as the most treasured thing and most valuable thing we could possibly possess. This involves acknowledging its presence within us, comprehending the value of grace, desiring with all of our strength to adapt our lives to it, resolving to achieve whatever God desires to accomplish through it, and carrying our decision to reality. We must forget the self and have God and his will as our sole desire. This, St. Theophan tells Anastasia, is only the beginning of the spiritual life. Great patience and constancy are needed; for we are involved in a spiritual warfare that extends to the end of our life. We must have the courage to wage the battle at every moment.

About Podcast

Philokalia Ministries is the fruit of 30 years spent at the feet of the Fathers of the Church. Led by Father David Abernethy, Philokalia (Philo: Love of the Kalia: Beautiful) Ministries exists to re-form hearts and minds according to the mold of the Desert Fathers through the ascetic life, the example of the early Saints, the way of stillness, prayer, and purity of heart, the practice of the Jesus Prayer, and spiritual reading. Those who are involved in Philokalia Ministries - the podcasts, videos, social media posts, spiritual direction and online groups - are exposed to writings that make up the ancient, shared spiritual heritage of East and West: The Ladder of Divine Ascent, Saint Augustine, the Philokalia, the Conferences of Saint John Cassian, the Ascetical Homilies of Saint Isaac the Syrian, and the Evergetinos. In addition to these, more recent authors and writings, which draw deeply from the well of the desert, are read and discussed: Lorenzo Scupoli, Saint Theophan the Recluse, anonymous writings from Mount Athos, the Cloud of Unknowing, Saint John of the Cross, Thomas a Kempis, and many more.

Philokalia Ministries is offered to all, free of charge. However, there are real and immediate needs associated with it. You can support Philokalia Ministries with one-time, or recurring monthly donations, which are most appreciated. Your support truly makes this ministry possible. May Almighty God, who created you and fashioned you in His own Divine Image, restore you through His grace and make of you a true icon of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.