Tuesday, October 30, 2007

A Taste of the Desert

For those who missed the retreat...

A few sayings of the Desert Mothers:

Amma Syncletica said, "In the beginning, there is struggle and a lot of work for those who come near to God. But after that, there is indescribable joy. It is just like building a fire: at first it’s smoky and your eyes water, but later you get the desired result. Thus we ought to light the divine fire in ourselves with tears and effort."

Amma Matrona said, "There are many in the mountains who behave as if they were in the town, and they are wasting their time. It is better to have many people around you and to live the solitary life in your will than to be alone and always longing to be with a crowd."

Amma Sarah said, "It is good to give alms for men's sake. Even if it is only done to please men, through it one can begin to seek to please God."

Amma Theodora said, "Neither asceticism, nor vigils nor any kind of suffering are able to save, only true humility can do that."

More sayings of the desert mothers and fathers can be found here.

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