Touching Heaven: Discovering Orthodox Christianity on the Island of Valaam

I will be reading this one again. Mr. Oliver's poetic and soothing prose lulled me into the story of his wonderful transformation from a "seeker" to an Orthodox Christian. His account of Valaam and Elder Raphael are like an afternoon recollection--as if I can close my eyes and share in his memories.

"Touching Heaven" is astonishing. Read it slowly, with great care and expectation.

With some appreciation for Russian culture at the beginning, John Oliver sets off to help rebuild part of the Valaam Monastery. His life is changed as he becomes a better Orthodox Christian and at the same time grows within as a thinker. The silence and the cooperate work in Northern Russia makes him realize his part in the scheme of life. He does find internal peace and understands why men over the centuries have turned to the monastic life. It is well written and could be re-read time and time again.