Way of the Ascetics: The Ancient Tradition of Discipline and Inner Growth

I would list this among the top 10 spiritual works written during the 20th Century. As a Protestant encountering Eastern Christianity's unique ascetic tradition for the first time, this book provided invaluable insight into the meaning of the Gospel for our daily life. By the time I finished it I was a Catechumen (one preparing for reception into the Orthodox Church). If you decide to read it, first, open your mind to a different perspective on topics like fasting, prayer, alms giving, and worship. You'll find yourself continually revisiting New Testament passages like the Sermon on the Mount (Matt 5 - 7) and even Leviticus shows up in a new light... Even if you never set foot in an Orthodox Church this book can provide a tremendous depth to your spiritual life. The style is very direct and hard hitting, but not in an angry, argumentative way. It's extremely humble, while being up front and honest about what it is that we face in our battle against the oppression of death and sin in our life. This book provides a basic roadmap, an outline, for how to free oneself from this oppression, both in act and mind. At the same time, the author presents an asceticism that isn't extreme (no running off and locking yourself in a box for 20 years, or refusing to sleep ever again). Instead, it is extremely practical and straightforward - designed for people living in the world. The last chapter even states that we are expected to live, more or less, like normal people - going to work, paying bills, eating and drinking, laughing and loving. Instead, however, by purifying ourselves of our attachment to all these things - by being free of the need for them - we free our mind and heart to be devoted to God. When that happens - and it's a process that spans a lifetime - everything becomes an act of love for God, which means that even the "normal" actions of life become pure and holy things. I'm not nearly as articulate as the author - so please pick up and read this wonderful book. If you let it, it can change your life for the better.

Orthodox Christians who recognize that they are functioning at far too basic a level to hope to profit from exposure to the Philocalia and similar authorities, will rejoice in this straightforward discussion of "the one thing needful." The author achieves great clarity without a hint of condescension. This book is an invaluable invitation to "the life in Christ!"

This little gem has found its way into the lives of thousands and bears a great return in communion with the Holy Trinity. Kierkegaard said that purity of heart is to will one thing. Through the grace of God it is a realisitc hope to purify the heart. Liturgy, Eucharist, almsgiving,etc are all means to this end. Colliander's book helps the seeker tune the inner life to the will of God though the groundwork of prayer and practical asceticism. One thing that is so winsome about it is that he doesn't hold spiritual carrots out to the reader without giving real guidance in how to grow in holiness. As with any book on such a serious topic, DO NOT read it for spiritual titulation. Take it seriously in the love of God. This is reality.Check out "Encountering the Depths" by Mother Mary Clare and "The Orthodox Way" by Bishop Kallistos Ware. They've been a great help to many!

This is a convicting look into the heart of the animal called "man." Colliander gives us a model of self examination and discipline which has been useful to me in my several years of preaching and teaching. There are goals of holiness here that are so solid, that if attained, heaven would start to shine through.I would recommend this book to anyone who desires a more holy heart.

Here is a 20th century writer giving us a window to theosis. Something to read every day for the rest of your life.