Tales of a Magic Monastery

These short snippets remind us to seek the divine in everyday life. They remind us to look outside ourselves, while always trying to improve ourselves. They are fun, funny, humorous and yet probe deeply into both the meaning of human existence, and the means to attain sanctification. I can pick up this book any day and flip to any story and be challenged.

'Tales of a Magic Monastery' published in '81 is a slim 95 page paperback book consisting of 12 chapters containing short 1 or 2 page tales written by an apparent nome-de-plume known as Theophane the Monk. Join Theophane and his mythical cast of monks as they search for truth not only within the sacred walls of the monastery, but also those self imposed barriers created by each of us; our fears, our presuppositions, our unwillingness to let go and refind ourselves deeper within are exposed and confronted in this captivating volume. Each vinette and evocative illustration will not only delight but promote thoughtful consideration that will bring you back for further examination again and again. Great reading for a short trip, or even better as a companion reader for a retreat or personal meditation.

I recently had the pleasure of meeting Father Theophane. I'd enjoyed this book, and I'd already given several copies to friends. But, I had assumed the some monks banded together and made up Theophane. There is such a whimsical and free feeling about these stories that a pretend author seemed not only possible but likely. It surprises me that one person could come up with all these different perspectives. But, Father Theophane himself is surprising! He first strikes you as a sort of reprobate monk - a bit wild in appearance and manner. Except, when he says Mass, all that personality and charisma are companioned by Theophane's deep reverence. He's an exceptional character. This book helped me know God better and know myself better. I highly recommend it.

I've given away more than fifty copies of Magic Monastery since it was first published, each with a note that: "it takes seven years to REALLY read this book." Each reading peels the onion for a deeper insight into Theophane's revelation of mystery.

Open to any page and walk into a place of calm and tranquility. Where Theophane treads one finds no hostility, no discord, only blessed peace. Read these vignettes when things are out of hand and you will be rewarded.