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Philokalia Ministries

Conferences of St. John Cassian - Conference Six on the Slaughter of Some Holy Men Part IV

Philokalia Ministries

We continue to make our way through Cassian's analysis of the spiritual life and its trials. As we approach the end of the Sixth Conference, Cassian makes it clear that there is no unchanging state in the spiritual life. We are either seeking God and growing in virtue (driven by desire) or we are being drawn deeper into the life of sin. Love of God, desire for the Beloved, must draw us on through the life of grace. With an intensity of mind, we must pursue what lies ahead and not let ourselves be molded and shaped by the things of the world. We must be held by God and shaped in accord with His wisdom and will.

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.