Paperback: I heard many very good homilies on prayer but they were all instructions about prayer in general: What is prayer, the necessity of prayer and the fruits of prayer? But no one spoke of the way in to succeed in prayer.
The 19th-century Russian spiritual classic on prayer, The Way of a Pilgrim and its sequel, The Pilgrim Continues On His Way, have long fascinated those who have stumbled on this winsome tale.
First published in Russian in 1884 under the title, Candid Narratives of a Pilgrim to His Spiritual Father, this religious masterpiece recounts the adventures of an anonymous Russian pilgrim - who might be called Epifan - who roams the vast Siberian steppes reciting the Jesus Prayer in order to obey Christ's injunction to "pray without ceasing."
Apparently a wise old monk collected for posterity the captivating accounts of the pilgrim's exploits in which he delved into the value and power of prayer and his increasing understanding of God's providence as he commits himself to a life of prayer.
The manuscript, which began to circulate privately after the pilgrim disappeared headed for Jerusalem, is reissued here in an updated translation adapted for American readers.
The pilgrim's charming tales and dedicated lifestyle are an inspirational challenge for all who would discover their own spiritual roots, pursue the contemplative life or assimilate their piety to our modern society. Many keep this unique devotional book close at hand for they have found it a comforting source of hope when they encounter trials along life's way. It is a humble, simple and beautiful narrative.
This edition is published by Magdalene Press in 2015.
About the author: By the grace of God I am a Christian, by my deeds a great sinner, and by my calling a homeless wanderer of humblest origin, roaming from place to place. My possessions consist of a knapsack with dry crusts of bread on my back and in my bosom the Holy Bible. That is all!
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