Abba Pachomious, like so many other men and women dissatisfied with the laxity of the Christian world around them, sought refuge for his soul in the desert. But it probably didn’t take him long to realize that not everyone was cut out to live in such harsh conditions alone. This is especially true for ladies … More Swamp Monasticism: Brotherhood Among the Maroons
It is easy to think of the bold men who became Maroons in the Great Dismal Swamp. Being an enslaved man forced to help dig the canals was one of the most brutal task of the colonial era. Deep, hard tree roots had to be cut through. Briar patches were everywhere. At least three types … More Great Dismal Love?: Men & Women Maroons
“Our Father, Abba Anthony, said he had never put his own personal advantage before the good of a brother.” John the Eunuch from the Sayings of the Desert Fathers There is a story of Abba Macarius receiving some fresh grapes. He wanted to eat them. But, he chose not to and knew another monk who … More Of Desert Fathers & Maroons: The Perils of Self Indulgence
Desert Fathers Dispatch 