During the fourth century there developed a group of women and men who chose to live lives of simplicity and struggle in order to keep their minds focused solely on God. To do this they chose to live alone in the desolation of the Egyptian desert. These quiet, fourth century hermits laid the groundwork for centuries of monasticism. They chose to embrace the severity of solitude, endure the cold of desert nights and the hunger that was a part of their way of life, all to become more aware of their own sinfulness so they could grow in holiness and relationship with God. Their lives of voluntary poverty, austerity, abstinence and prayer have produced a treasure trove of wisdom for spiritual pilgrims of every generation. The Second Vatican Council taught that “Catholics therefore are earnestly recommended to avail themselves of the spiritual riches of the Eastern Fathers which lift up the whole man to the contemplation of the divine.”

Those who have truly decided to serve the Lord God should practice the remembrance of God and uninterrupted prayer to Jesus Christ, mentally saying: Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner. St. Seraphim of Sarov