One of the most important and accessible texts of Eastern Orthodox Christian teaching on the spiritual life, this book draws upon the ascetic and mystical doctrine of the Greek Fathers and greats of the Orthodox Christian church. In an age alienated from spiritual culture and rooted in materialism, these teachings pose both a challenge and an invitation to those seeking heightened spirituality. This book is essential reading for anyone who desires a profound spiritual journey based upon an encounter with Christ as God. AUTHOR: Ignatius Brianchaninov (1807D1867) was a prolific author of Orthodox Christian ascetical works. Published toward the end of his life, his writings continued to grow in popularity long after his death. Along with his contemporary, St. Theophan the Recluse, Ignatius is now considered a foremost authority on Orthodox spirituality. He was canonized by the Russian Orthodox Church in 1988. Kallistos (Timothy) Ware is an Orthodox Bishop of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople and the retired Spalding Lecturer in Eastern Orthodox Studies at Pembroke College, University of Oxford. He is best-known as the author of the classic text The Orthodox Church.