In the East, one frequently sought out an elder as a spiritual director; this was, in fact, the chief role monastics filled for their surrounding community. Letters from the Desert contains selected letters offering advice of a spiritual and practical nature on an assortment of questions asked by priests, monks, laypeople, and inquirers.
About the Popular Patristics Series The Popular Patristics series published by St. Vladimir's Seminary Press provides readable and accurate translations of a broad range of early Christian literature to a wide audience--from students of Christian history to lay Christians reading for spiritual benefit.
Recognized Patristic scholars provide short but comprehensive and clear introductory essays according to their specializations for each volume.
Texts include classics of Christian literature, thematic volumes, homily collections, letters, spiritual guidance, and poetical works from a wide variety geographical contexts and historical backgrounds. The purpose of the series is to mine the riches of the early church and to make these invaluable writings available to all.
