Desert Fathers and Mothers

Early Christian Wisdom Sayings

by Christine Valters Paintner

Tuesdays, 6:30 - 7:30 pm in the classroom.

Starts April 14

The spiritual practices of the desert fathers and mothers formed the basis of Western monasticism and greatly influenced both Western and Eastern Christianity.

Their writings, first recorded in the fourth century, consist of spiritual advice, parables and anecdotes emphasizing the primacy of love and the purity of heart. Focusing on key themes of charity, fortitude, lust, patience, prayer and self-control, the Sayings influenced the rule of St. Benedict and have inspired centuries of opera, poetry and art.

This edition opens up their wisdom for readers with no previous knowledge of Western monasticism and early Christianity, providing insightful commentary that describes historical background, explains the practice of asceticism and illustrates how you can use their wisdom today.


Please register using the form below.

There is no fee for this study, but please purchase the book on your own before the first meeting.