by Saint Theophan the Recluse
Practical advice from a master on how to move "from spoken prayer to a heart of fire". Four chapters cover: a personal rule of prayer, mental prayer, unceasing prayer, a life of prayer. "I think that these few instructions are enough..." - St. Theophan
A minor update was made in March 2026 to correct some typos and format issues.
A full and rich introduction to the use of daily and liturgical prayer as a method of spiritual development by this researcher, bishop, hermit and starets whose correspondence guided thousands. The four sermons give deep and highly practical guidance on personal prayer as a way of spiritual growth. The text includes an appendix of earlier prayers from the Fathers of the church.
From the inside cover by Theophan:
"Prayer is the elevation of the mind and heart to God in praise, in thanksgiving, and in petition for the spiritual and material goods we need. The Saviour commanded us to enter into our inner room, and there to pray to God the Father in secret. According to Saint Demetrius of Rostov, the inner room means the heart. Consequently, the commandment of the Lord obliges us to pray noetically to God in our heart. This commandment extends to all Christians. The Apostle Paul commands the same, saying that we must pray all the time in our nous."
"Paul commands mental or spiritual prayer for all Christians without exception. He also orders all Christians to pray unceasingly. To pray unceasingly is only possible in the heart. Therefore it is impossible to contest the fact that noetic prayer is compulsory for all Christians, and if it is obligatory, then it is also possible - God does not command the impossible."
Paperback 5.75" x 8.25" x .25"