-
Toolkit for Spiritual Growth
- A Practical Guide to Prayer, Fasting, and Almsgiving
- Narrated by: Evan Armatas
- Length: 2 hrs and 29 mins
Failed to add items
Add to Cart failed.
Add to Wish List failed.
Remove from wishlist failed.
Adding to library failed
Follow podcast failed
Unfollow podcast failed
![Prime logo](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/G/01/Audible/Homestead/Prime_Logo_RGB.png)
Get 2 free audiobooks during trial.
Buy for $6.95
No default payment method selected.
We are sorry. We are not allowed to sell this product with the selected payment method
Listeners also enjoyed...
-
For the Life of the World
- By: Alexander Schmemann
- Narrated by: Zachariah Mandell
- Length: 6 hrs and 31 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The audiobook version of this book on an approach to the world and life within it stems from the liturgical experience of the Orthodox Church. The author understands issues such as secularism and Christian culture from the perspective of the unbroken experience of the Church, as revealed and communicated in her worship, in her liturgy—the sacrament of the world, the sacrament of the Kingdom.
-
-
Transformative presentation of the core of the Christian vision.
- By Ushiwaka on 08-01-24
-
Thinking Orthodox: Understanding and Acquiring the Orthodox Christian Mind
- By: Eugenia Scarvelis Constantinou Ph.D.
- Narrated by: Eugenia Scarvelis Constantinou Ph.D.
- Length: 19 hrs and 8 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
What does it mean to "think Orthodox"? What are the unspoken and unexplored premises and presumptions underlying what Christians believe? Orthodox Christianity is based on preserving the mind of the early Church, its phronema. Dr. Jeannie Constantinou brings her more than 40 years' experience as a professor, Bible teacher, and speaker to bear in explaining what the Orthodox phronema is, how it can be acquired, and how that phronema is expressed in true Orthodox theology.
-
-
Thinking Orthodox
- By Megan on 05-09-21
-
The Whole Counsel of God
- An Introduction to Your Bible
- By: Stephen De Young
- Narrated by: Stephen De Young
- Length: 3 hrs and 14 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
In The Whole Counsel of God, popular writer and podcaster Fr. Stephen de Young gives an overview of what the Bible is and what is its place in the life of an Orthodox Christian, correcting many Protestant misconceptions along the way. Issues covered include inspiration, inerrancy, the formation of the biblical canon, the various texts and their provenance, the place of Scripture within Orthodox Tradition, and how an Orthodox Christian should read, study, and interpret the Bible.
-
-
A good intro to The Orthodox approach to Scripture
- By Josh on 11-07-22
By: Stephen De Young
-
Arise O God
- The Gospel of Christ’s Defeat of Demons, Sin, and Death
- By: Andrew Stephen Damick
- Narrated by: Andrew Stephen Damick
- Length: 2 hrs and 49 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The gospel of Jesus Christ is not about what Jesus can do for your life. It is not even the answer to the question, “How can I be saved?” It is the declaration of a victory. In his coming to earth, his suffering, and his Resurrection, Christ conquered demons, sin, and death. In Arise, O God, author and podcaster Fr. Andrew Stephen Damick introduces us to the spiritual war that Christ won by his victory, how we are caught in that war’s cosmic crossfire, what the true content of the gospel is—and how we are to respond.
-
-
Clarity
- By Genevi on 08-31-21
-
Rock and Sand
- An Orthodox Appraisal of the Protestant Reformers and Their Teachings
- By: Archpriest Josiah Trenham
- Narrated by: Father Josiah Trenham
- Length: 8 hrs and 36 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
This audiobook has been made for three purposes. First, to provide the Orthodox listener with a competent overview of the history of Protestantism and its major traditions, from its beginnings in the 16th century to the present day. Second, to acquaint Orthodox and non-Orthodox listeners with a narrative of the historical relations between the Orthodox East and the Protestant West. Finally, to provide a summary of Orthodox theological opinion on the tenets of Protestantism.
-
-
The rest of the story like Paul Harvey says
- By David A Burrows on 04-07-19
-
Religion of the Apostles: Orthodox Christianity in the First Century
- By: Stephen De Young
- Narrated by: Stephen De Young
- Length: 9 hrs and 17 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Rev. Dr. Stephen De Young, creator of the popular The Whole Counsel of God blog and podcast, traces the lineage of Orthodox Christianity back to the faith and witness of the apostles, which was rooted in a first-century Jewish worldview. The Religion of the Apostles presents the Orthodox Christian Church of today as a continuation of the religious life of the apostles, which in turn was a continuation of the life of the people of God since the beginning of creation.
-
-
The first Christians did not “invent” anything
- By Petar Jovanovic on 06-24-21
By: Stephen De Young
-
For the Life of the World
- By: Alexander Schmemann
- Narrated by: Zachariah Mandell
- Length: 6 hrs and 31 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The audiobook version of this book on an approach to the world and life within it stems from the liturgical experience of the Orthodox Church. The author understands issues such as secularism and Christian culture from the perspective of the unbroken experience of the Church, as revealed and communicated in her worship, in her liturgy—the sacrament of the world, the sacrament of the Kingdom.
-
-
Transformative presentation of the core of the Christian vision.
- By Ushiwaka on 08-01-24
-
Thinking Orthodox: Understanding and Acquiring the Orthodox Christian Mind
- By: Eugenia Scarvelis Constantinou Ph.D.
- Narrated by: Eugenia Scarvelis Constantinou Ph.D.
- Length: 19 hrs and 8 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
What does it mean to "think Orthodox"? What are the unspoken and unexplored premises and presumptions underlying what Christians believe? Orthodox Christianity is based on preserving the mind of the early Church, its phronema. Dr. Jeannie Constantinou brings her more than 40 years' experience as a professor, Bible teacher, and speaker to bear in explaining what the Orthodox phronema is, how it can be acquired, and how that phronema is expressed in true Orthodox theology.
-
-
Thinking Orthodox
- By Megan on 05-09-21
-
The Whole Counsel of God
- An Introduction to Your Bible
- By: Stephen De Young
- Narrated by: Stephen De Young
- Length: 3 hrs and 14 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
In The Whole Counsel of God, popular writer and podcaster Fr. Stephen de Young gives an overview of what the Bible is and what is its place in the life of an Orthodox Christian, correcting many Protestant misconceptions along the way. Issues covered include inspiration, inerrancy, the formation of the biblical canon, the various texts and their provenance, the place of Scripture within Orthodox Tradition, and how an Orthodox Christian should read, study, and interpret the Bible.
-
-
A good intro to The Orthodox approach to Scripture
- By Josh on 11-07-22
By: Stephen De Young
-
Arise O God
- The Gospel of Christ’s Defeat of Demons, Sin, and Death
- By: Andrew Stephen Damick
- Narrated by: Andrew Stephen Damick
- Length: 2 hrs and 49 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The gospel of Jesus Christ is not about what Jesus can do for your life. It is not even the answer to the question, “How can I be saved?” It is the declaration of a victory. In his coming to earth, his suffering, and his Resurrection, Christ conquered demons, sin, and death. In Arise, O God, author and podcaster Fr. Andrew Stephen Damick introduces us to the spiritual war that Christ won by his victory, how we are caught in that war’s cosmic crossfire, what the true content of the gospel is—and how we are to respond.
-
-
Clarity
- By Genevi on 08-31-21
-
Rock and Sand
- An Orthodox Appraisal of the Protestant Reformers and Their Teachings
- By: Archpriest Josiah Trenham
- Narrated by: Father Josiah Trenham
- Length: 8 hrs and 36 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
This audiobook has been made for three purposes. First, to provide the Orthodox listener with a competent overview of the history of Protestantism and its major traditions, from its beginnings in the 16th century to the present day. Second, to acquaint Orthodox and non-Orthodox listeners with a narrative of the historical relations between the Orthodox East and the Protestant West. Finally, to provide a summary of Orthodox theological opinion on the tenets of Protestantism.
-
-
The rest of the story like Paul Harvey says
- By David A Burrows on 04-07-19
-
Religion of the Apostles: Orthodox Christianity in the First Century
- By: Stephen De Young
- Narrated by: Stephen De Young
- Length: 9 hrs and 17 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Rev. Dr. Stephen De Young, creator of the popular The Whole Counsel of God blog and podcast, traces the lineage of Orthodox Christianity back to the faith and witness of the apostles, which was rooted in a first-century Jewish worldview. The Religion of the Apostles presents the Orthodox Christian Church of today as a continuation of the religious life of the apostles, which in turn was a continuation of the life of the people of God since the beginning of creation.
-
-
The first Christians did not “invent” anything
- By Petar Jovanovic on 06-24-21
By: Stephen De Young
-
The Ancient Faith Psalter
- By: Monks of the Orthodox Church
- Narrated by: Fr. John Oliver
- Length: 8 hrs and 34 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
A dedicated group of Orthodox monks (who wish to remain anonymous) have created a fresh English translation of the Masoretic Hebrew text of the Psalter, corrected to the Septuagint. A frequently asked question: The Psalms aren't in numerical order in this Psalter. Why is that? Answer: That was done intentionally. This edition of the Psalter was created for prayer, at home or in church, rather than for reference. It's not just another Book of Psalms.
-
-
Excellent in every way.
- By Amazon Customer on 02-10-17
-
Orthodoxy and Heterodoxy: Finding the Way to Christ in a Complicated Religious Landscape
- By: Andrew Stephen Damick
- Narrated by: Andrew Stephen Damick
- Length: 14 hrs and 59 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Are you an Orthodox Christian who wonders how to explain to your Baptist grandmother, your Buddhist neighbor, or the Jehovah’s Witness at your door how your faith differs from theirs? Or are you a member of another faith who is curious what Orthodoxy is all about? Look no further. In Orthodoxy and Heterodoxy, Fr. Andrew Stephen Damick covers the gamut of ancient heresies, modern Christian denominations, fringe groups, and major world religions, highlighting the main points of each faith.
-
-
Christian Denominations in a Nutshell
- By Melissa C. on 11-04-21
-
Know the Faith
- A Handbook for Orthodox Christians and Inquirers
- By: Michael Shanbour
- Narrated by: Darrell Smith
- Length: 9 hrs and 50 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Over the centuries since the Great Schism between the Eastern and Western Churches, the two groups have diverged to the point that they often no longer understand each other’s vocabulary, let alone the fundamental concepts on which each faith is built. Know the Faith is an attempt to present Orthodox Christianity in a way Western Christians can understand, grounding each point in Scripture and patristic theology, with comparisons to what Catholics and Protestants believe.
-
-
A handbook for everyone!
- By Amazon Customer on 04-01-21
By: Michael Shanbour
-
When You Pray
- A Practical Guide to an Orthodox Life of Prayer
- By: L. Joseph Letendre
- Narrated by: L. Joseph Letendre
- Length: 1 hr and 11 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Anyone who prays or has tried to pray and given up in discouragement knows praying, really praying, is not easy. Praying consistently seems almost impossible. Too often and too easily, prayer becomes a burden: one more item on an already overcrowded to-do list. Failing to pray becomes a source of guilt and stress as we must once again admit our inconstancy and procrastination to our father confessor. The purpose of this audiobook, then, is not to add to the burden, but to ease it by distilling the advice and experience of those who pray.
-
-
Easy to listen and read...
- By Anyanet on 12-06-18
-
Welcome to the Orthodox Church
- An Introduction to Eastern Christianity
- By: Frederica Mathewes-Green
- Narrated by: Frederica Mathewes-Green
- Length: 13 hrs and 34 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Welcome to the Orthodox Church - its history, theology, worship, spirituality, and daily life. This friendly guide provides a comprehensive introduction to Orthodoxy, but with a twist: listeners learn by making a series of visits to a fictitious church, and get to know the faith as new Christians did for most of history, by immersion. Mathews-Green provides commentary and explanations on everything from how to "venerate" an icon, the Orthodox understanding of the atonement, to the Lenten significance of tofu.
-
-
Oh my!
- By Jrhd437 on 03-21-17
-
The Crucifixion of the King of Glory: The Amazing History and Sublime Mystery of the Passion
- By: Eugenia Scarvelis Constantinou PhD
- Narrated by: Eugenia Scarvelis Constantinou
- Length: 15 hrs and 50 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The crucifixion and resurrection of Christ are central events in our salvation. Yet few Christians have a good grasp of the first-century historical and religious context in which the crucifixion took place, nor of its true significance for the people of that time - and hence for our time as well. Biblical scholar and attorney Dr. Jeannie Constantinou puts modern listeners in the center of the events of Christ's Passion, bringing the best of modern scholarship to bear while keeping her interpretation faithful in every particular to the Orthodox tradition.
-
-
Might be the best book I've ever heard on audible.
- By Chris Russi on 12-26-22
-
An Exact Exposition of the Orthodox Faith
- Linked to the Bible; Includes Footnotes
- By: Saint John of Damascus
- Narrated by: Peter Brooke
- Length: 8 hrs and 54 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
In this classic book, John of Damascus laboured to form one complete, clear, and brief theological work that would summarize all Christian doctrine that had been passed down and agreed upon. The following was said of the book: The result was an inexhaustible storehouse of tradition in which nothing is to be found that has not been either approved by the ecumenical synods or by the established leaders of the Church.
-
-
the ruler cut off this saints right hand.
- By Trevor J. on 09-08-21
-
Bearing God
- The Life and Works of St. Ignatius of Antioch the God-Bearer
- By: Andrew Stephen Damick
- Narrated by: Andrew Stephen Damick
- Length: 4 hrs and 14 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
St. Ignatius, first-century Bishop of Antioch, called the “God-bearer”, is one of the earliest witnesses to the truth of Christ and the nature of the Christian life. Tradition tells us that as a small child, Ignatius was singled out by Jesus himself as an example of the childlike faith all Christians must possess. In Bearing God, Father Andrew Damick recounts the life of this great pastor, martyr, and saint, and interprets for the modern listener five major themes in the pastoral letters he wrote.
-
-
Life & Works of a Great Martyr
- By Anonymous User on 03-21-22
-
When You Fast
- The Why and How of Christian Self-Discipline
- By: L. Joseph Letendre
- Narrated by: L. Joseph Letendre
- Length: 1 hr and 56 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
In this companion volume to the popular When You Pray, L. Joseph Letendre explores the underpinnings of the Church's practice of fasting and of ascetic discipline in general. Rather than being preoccupied with the details of food regulations, he helps the listener understand the purpose of fasting and how to enter into it more willingly and fully.
-
-
A base for understanding Orthodox Lent
- By Cheryl H. on 04-07-24
-
Apocrypha
- An Introduction to Extra-Biblical Literature
- By: Stephen De Young
- Narrated by: Stephen De Young
- Length: 8 hrs and 27 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Many Christians today divide ancient Jewish and Christian literature into two categories: what is in the Bible and what is not. The Christian East, however, has traditionally described a third category considered beneficial for Christians to listen to in the home: “apocrypha.” These texts, from the centuries before and after the Incarnation of Jesus Christ—beyond even the larger canons of the Orthodox and Roman Catholic Old Testaments—reveal to us the religious world and theological framework of the apostles and early Church Fathers.
-
-
Great Intro Into Apocryphal Literature
- By Christina on 07-15-23
By: Stephen De Young
-
The Word of Promise Audio Bible—New King James Version, NKJV: Complete Bible
- By: Thomas Nelson Inc.
- Narrated by: Jason Alexander, Joan Allen, Richard Dreyfuss, and others
- Length: 98 hrs and 1 min
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
With an original music score by composer Stefano Mainetti (Abba Pater), feature-film quality sound effects, and compelling narration by Michael York and the work of over 500 actors, the The Word of Promise Audio Bible will immerse listeners in the dramatic reality of the scriptures as never before. Each beloved book of the Bible comes to life with outstanding performances by Jim Caviezel as Jesus, Richard Dreyfuss as Moses, Gary Sinise as David, Jason Alexander as Joseph, Marisa Tomei as Mary Magdalene, Stacy Keach as Paul, Louis Gossett, Jr. as John...
-
-
Lovely...needs a section guide. I made one
- By A. Lee on 08-29-16
-
Celebration of Discipline
- By: Richard J. Foster
- Narrated by: Richard Rohan
- Length: 7 hrs and 9 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Hailed by many as the best modern book on Christian spirituality, Celebration of Discipline has helped more than one million seekers discover a richer spiritual life infused with joy, peace, and a deeper understanding of God.
-
-
Great Book, Horribly Audiobook to Navigate
- By Jordan on 03-27-18
Publisher's summary
Are you a new Orthodox Christian, confused about what you need to do to grow in your faith? Or perhaps you've been Orthodox for some time but could use a refresher course in basic spirituality. Popular podcaster Fr. Evan Armatas explains the fundamentals of the three-legged stool of Orthdoox practice - prayer, almsgiving, and fasting - in terms that everyone can understand and implement. Let Fr. Evan help you establish your life in Christ on a firm footing.
Related to this topic
-
The Great Omission
- Reclaiming Jesus's Essential Teachings on Discipleship
- By: Dallas Willard
- Narrated by: Grover Gardner
- Length: 7 hrs and 25 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The last command Jesus gave the church before he ascended to heaven was the Great Commission, the call for Christians to "make disciples of all the nations.
"But Christians have responded by making "Christians", not "disciples". This, according to brilliant scholar and renowned Christian thinker Dallas Willard, has been the church's Great Omission.
-
-
Am I Christian enough to make it to heaven?
- By Steve S. Herron on 06-03-16
By: Dallas Willard
-
The Spirit of the Disciplines
- Understanding How God Changes Lives
- By: Dallas Willard
- Narrated by: Robertson Dean
- Length: 9 hrs and 46 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Dallas Willard, one of today's most brilliant Christian thinkers and the author of The Divine Conspiracy ( Christianity Today's 1999 Book of the Year), presents a way of living that enables ordinary men and women to enjoy the fruit of the Christian life.
-
-
Drivel
- By Amazon Customer on 07-09-18
By: Dallas Willard
-
The Illumined Heart: Capture the Vibrant Faith of the Ancient Christians
- By: Frederica Mathewes-Green
- Narrated by: Frederica Mathewes-Green
- Length: 2 hrs and 1 min
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Why are modern Christians so indistinguishable from everyone else? How come Christians who lived in times of bloody persecution were so heroic, while we who live in safety are not? How could the first Christians fast valiantly, but we feel deprived without dessert? How did New Testament believers pray without ceasing? How could the early Christian martyrs actually forgive their torturers? What did the Christians of the first centuries know that we don't? This book explores these questions.
-
-
Illuminating wisdom! Thank you!
- By James A. Coles Jr. on 06-17-16
-
After You Believe
- Why Christian Character Matters
- By: N. T. Wright
- Narrated by: Antony Ferguson
- Length: 10 hrs and 1 min
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
We are all spiritual seekers, intuitively knowing there is more to life than we suspect. This is a book for anyone who is hoping there is something more while we’re here on Earth. There is. We are being called to join the revolution, and Wright insightfully encourages readers to find new purpose and clarity by taking us on an eye-opening journey through key biblical passages that promise to radically alter the work of the church and the direction of our lives.
-
-
True Spirituality
- By Wayne on 04-11-11
By: N. T. Wright
-
I Am a Follower
- The Way, Truth, and Life of Following Jesus
- By: Leonard Sweet
- Narrated by: Leonard Sweet
- Length: 6 hrs and 36 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
“Leadership” has become a runaway obsession for those who are called to equip the body of Christ for service in the Kingdom of God. The concept of “followership” is all but lost in the wake of this leadership fetish, a near hypnotic obsession. Jesus’ clear call, and the pattern of New Testament leadership, are actually found in a pattern of followership. We’ve been told otherwise but when it comes to a movement in our churches, our families, or the workplace, everything rises or falls on followership. Sweet proposes an intentional shift from leadership cults to followership cultures.
-
-
A manual for those on the Journey
- By R. L. Richter on 05-04-12
By: Leonard Sweet
-
Gospel-Driven Ministry
- An Introduction to the Calling and Work of a Pastor
- By: Jared C. Wilson, Ray Ortlund - foreword
- Narrated by: Steven Grimsley
- Length: 7 hrs and 38 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
In Gospel-Driven Ministry, Jared Wilson looks at the qualifications for the pastorate, addressing the notion of a call to ministry and how to identify the marks of maturity and affirm a call. In addition, he unpacks the eight core practices of pastoral ministry and offers guidance to prepare pastors for long-term, healthy ministry.
-
-
Uniquely Strong Book on the Care of Souls
- By JPN on 01-19-23
By: Jared C. Wilson, and others
-
The Great Omission
- Reclaiming Jesus's Essential Teachings on Discipleship
- By: Dallas Willard
- Narrated by: Grover Gardner
- Length: 7 hrs and 25 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The last command Jesus gave the church before he ascended to heaven was the Great Commission, the call for Christians to "make disciples of all the nations.
"But Christians have responded by making "Christians", not "disciples". This, according to brilliant scholar and renowned Christian thinker Dallas Willard, has been the church's Great Omission.
-
-
Am I Christian enough to make it to heaven?
- By Steve S. Herron on 06-03-16
By: Dallas Willard
-
The Spirit of the Disciplines
- Understanding How God Changes Lives
- By: Dallas Willard
- Narrated by: Robertson Dean
- Length: 9 hrs and 46 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Dallas Willard, one of today's most brilliant Christian thinkers and the author of The Divine Conspiracy ( Christianity Today's 1999 Book of the Year), presents a way of living that enables ordinary men and women to enjoy the fruit of the Christian life.
-
-
Drivel
- By Amazon Customer on 07-09-18
By: Dallas Willard
-
The Illumined Heart: Capture the Vibrant Faith of the Ancient Christians
- By: Frederica Mathewes-Green
- Narrated by: Frederica Mathewes-Green
- Length: 2 hrs and 1 min
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Why are modern Christians so indistinguishable from everyone else? How come Christians who lived in times of bloody persecution were so heroic, while we who live in safety are not? How could the first Christians fast valiantly, but we feel deprived without dessert? How did New Testament believers pray without ceasing? How could the early Christian martyrs actually forgive their torturers? What did the Christians of the first centuries know that we don't? This book explores these questions.
-
-
Illuminating wisdom! Thank you!
- By James A. Coles Jr. on 06-17-16
-
After You Believe
- Why Christian Character Matters
- By: N. T. Wright
- Narrated by: Antony Ferguson
- Length: 10 hrs and 1 min
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
We are all spiritual seekers, intuitively knowing there is more to life than we suspect. This is a book for anyone who is hoping there is something more while we’re here on Earth. There is. We are being called to join the revolution, and Wright insightfully encourages readers to find new purpose and clarity by taking us on an eye-opening journey through key biblical passages that promise to radically alter the work of the church and the direction of our lives.
-
-
True Spirituality
- By Wayne on 04-11-11
By: N. T. Wright
-
I Am a Follower
- The Way, Truth, and Life of Following Jesus
- By: Leonard Sweet
- Narrated by: Leonard Sweet
- Length: 6 hrs and 36 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
“Leadership” has become a runaway obsession for those who are called to equip the body of Christ for service in the Kingdom of God. The concept of “followership” is all but lost in the wake of this leadership fetish, a near hypnotic obsession. Jesus’ clear call, and the pattern of New Testament leadership, are actually found in a pattern of followership. We’ve been told otherwise but when it comes to a movement in our churches, our families, or the workplace, everything rises or falls on followership. Sweet proposes an intentional shift from leadership cults to followership cultures.
-
-
A manual for those on the Journey
- By R. L. Richter on 05-04-12
By: Leonard Sweet
-
Gospel-Driven Ministry
- An Introduction to the Calling and Work of a Pastor
- By: Jared C. Wilson, Ray Ortlund - foreword
- Narrated by: Steven Grimsley
- Length: 7 hrs and 38 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
In Gospel-Driven Ministry, Jared Wilson looks at the qualifications for the pastorate, addressing the notion of a call to ministry and how to identify the marks of maturity and affirm a call. In addition, he unpacks the eight core practices of pastoral ministry and offers guidance to prepare pastors for long-term, healthy ministry.
-
-
Uniquely Strong Book on the Care of Souls
- By JPN on 01-19-23
By: Jared C. Wilson, and others
-
Encounter Jesus
- From Discovery to Discipleship
- By: Fr Dave Pivonka, Deacon Ralph Poyo
- Narrated by: Fr Dave Pivonka, Deacon Ralph Poyo
- Length: 3 hrs and 53 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
It's exciting when someone has a living encounter with the God of the universe. A lightbulb goes on, and everything feels new. But with that sense of exhilaration comes the realization: in order to take one's faith seriously, things must change. An encounter with Jesus is a very significant experience, and Fr. Dave and Deacon Ralph show readers how to move from discovering their faith to following Jesus wherever he leads them along the path of discipleship.
-
-
engaging
- By Maria Vidal on 03-07-24
By: Fr Dave Pivonka, and others
-
Open to the Spirit
- God in Us, God with Us, God Transforming Us
- By: Scot McKnight
- Narrated by: Jeremy Richards
- Length: 6 hrs and 8 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Who exactly is the Holy Spirit? What does he do in our lives? How can we know him more deeply, and is it possible to tap in to his power? Should we pray to the Holy Spirit? Is it possible to be aware of his promptings and speaking into our lives? Dr. Scot McKnight answers these questions and more in this comprehensive examination of what the Bible says about this divinely important but often confusing member of the Trinity.
-
-
The Spirit Is Essential.
- By Adam Shields on 09-03-19
By: Scot McKnight
-
Eucharist
- By: Robert Barron
- Narrated by: Robert Barron
- Length: 3 hrs and 57 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
A master theologian offers inspiring insights into the mystery of Christ's presence in our lives. As festive as the film Babette's Feast and as profound as the work of Ronald Knox, this fresh look at the Eucharist brings to light the spiritual meaning of meal, sacrifice, and real presence in our lives.
-
-
Orthodox teaching, beautifully presented
- By Echo Juliet on 12-29-11
By: Robert Barron
-
The Power of Knowing God
- By: Tony Evans
- Narrated by: JD Jackson
- Length: 6 hrs and 36 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
When God calls you and me to know him and experience him, he wants more than a fan club. He wants an intimate relationship.
-
-
Excellent book!
- By Valerie on 04-14-21
By: Tony Evans
-
Jesus' Alternative Plan
- The Sermon on the Mount
- By: Richard Rohr OFM
- Narrated by: Dean Gallagher
- Length: 7 hrs and 57 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Richard Rohr Rohr goes through the teachings of the Sermon on the Mount, explaining the historical and cultural context of each verse and offering guidance for what it means for Christians today.
-
-
Updated Version
- By Anonymous User on 03-30-23
By: Richard Rohr OFM
-
The Wisdom of the Desert with Nicholas Buxton
- By: Nicholas Buxton, Wise Studies
- Narrated by: Nicholas Buxton
- Length: 4 hrs and 56 mins
- Original Recording
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The course begins by looking at the origins of Christian monasticism during the third century CE, when thousands of men and women renounced the world and withdrew to the deserts of Egypt, Syria, and Palestine to seek God in a life of solitude and prayer. What inspired them to do this? What were they trying to achieve? In seeking answers to these questions, we will examine the lives and sayings of the so-called "desert fathers", with a particular emphasis on the theological writings of Evagrius of Pontus (c. 345-399).
-
-
When the Student is Ready
- By Douglas Scott Miller on 12-10-21
By: Nicholas Buxton, and others
-
Sermon on the Mount
- A Beginner's Guide to the Kingdom of Heaven
- By: Amy-Jill Levine
- Narrated by: Nan McNamara
- Length: 5 hrs and 34 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
How is the follower of Jesus to understand the words of the Old Testament? How are those words relevant to the New Covenant he is establishing? What might the words of the Lord’s Prayer have conveyed to his initial followers, and why is that historical information essential to the prayer two millennia later? In Sermon on the Mount, Dr. Amy-Jill Levine takes a detailed and colorful overview of Matthew 5-7, collectively known as Jesus’s Sermon on the Mount.
-
-
Ye Resist Not Evil
- By Jaden Kellogg on 08-19-20
By: Amy-Jill Levine
-
Spirit and Sacrament
- An Invitation to Eucharismatic Worship
- By: Andrew Wilson
- Narrated by: Derek Perkins
- Length: 4 hrs and 14 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Spirit and Sacrament by pastor and author Andrew Wilson is an impassioned call to join together two traditions that are frequently and unnecessarily kept separate. It is an invitation to pursue the best of both worlds in worship, the Eucharistic and the charismatic, with the grace of God at the center. Wilson envisions church services in which healing testimonies, creeds, exuberant praise, and ancient liturgy coexist, and in doing so, deepen our worship and increase our joy.
-
-
Is not what I was hoping
- By KIM SMITH on 01-16-23
By: Andrew Wilson
-
Medieval Wisdom for Modern Christians
- Finding Authentic Faith in a Forgotten Age with C.S. Lewis
- By: Chris R. Armstrong
- Narrated by: Jon Gauger
- Length: 9 hrs and 51 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Many Christians today tend to view the story of medieval faith as a cautionary tale. Too often, they dismiss the Middle Ages as a period of corruption and decay in the church. They seem to assume that the church apostatized from true Christianity after it gained cultural influence in the time of Constantine, and that the faith was only later recovered by the 16th-century Reformers or even the 18th-century revivalists. As a result, the riches and wisdom of the medieval period have remained largely inaccessible to modern Protestants.
-
-
A splendid introduction to Medieval faith from an Evangelical perspective
- By Daniel on 03-07-20
-
Praying
- Finding Our Way Through Duty to Delight
- By: J. I. Packer, Caroline Nystrom
- Narrated by: Rob Lamont
- Length: 2 hrs and 15 mins
- Abridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Is praying a duty or a delight? J. I. Packer and Carolyn Nystrom say that it's both; an essential, expected practice as a follower of Christ, but also a privilege and joy. As we start out learning to pray properly, however, the delight often seems to be missing. Here is practical help for active, honest praying that involves all of who we are - heart, hands and head - and moves us to deeper obedience, joy and intimacy with our Father.
-
-
Abridged, Heck
- By R.K. Herrell on 11-13-15
By: J. I. Packer, and others
-
Freedom of Simplicity
- Finding Harmony in a Complex World
- By: Richard J. Foster
- Narrated by: Lloyd James
- Length: 8 hrs and 9 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Written in the same warm, accessible style as Richard Foster's best-selling Celebration of Discipline, Freedom of Simplicity articulates a creative, more human style of living and points the way for Christians to make their lives "models of simplicity."
-
-
Challenging and provoking
- By Kindle Customer on 05-27-09
-
The Holy Longing
- The Search for a Christian Spirituality
- By: Ronald Rolheiser
- Narrated by: Bill Loran
- Length: 9 hrs and 34 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Listeners will be fully engaged in a unique and altogether fascinating discussion of Christian spirituality. Rolheiser seeks to reconcile the rift between a smorgasbord of spiritual voices and an authentic Christian discipleship by the use of anecdotes, personal examples and a wide range of literary and cultural references. His starting point is the desire within us that longs irresistibly for fulfillment.
-
-
Great content
- By Allison Winter on 11-07-23
By: Ronald Rolheiser
People who viewed this also viewed...
-
A Basic Guide to Eastern Orthodox Theology
- Introducing Beliefs and Practices
- By: Eve Tibbs
- Narrated by: Eve Tibbs
- Length: 6 hrs and 58 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Eve Tibbs offers a comprehensive, yet very accessible, introduction to the beliefs and practices of the Eastern Orthodox Church for Western listeners. Tibbs has devoted her career to translating the Orthodox faith to an evangelical audience, and she has over 20 years of experience teaching this material to students. Assuming no prior knowledge of Orthodox theology, this survey covers the basic ideas of Eastern Orthodox Christianity, from its origins at Pentecost to the present day.
-
-
Disappointed
- By R on 05-14-22
By: Eve Tibbs
-
Reclaiming the Great Commission
- A Roadmap to Parish Health
- By: Evan Armatas
- Narrated by: Evan Armatas
- Length: 5 hrs and 54 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
In Reclaiming the Great Commission, Fr. Evan Armatas offers a roadmap to help us get back on track. Relying on his 20 years of parish experience, Holy Scripture, and insights from research and his visits with churches across the US, he discusses how you and your community can implement changes that will transform, revitalize, and renew your parish.
-
-
Not about sharing the Gospel
- By Manuel on 06-16-24
By: Evan Armatas
-
Preparing for Confession
- By: L. Joseph Letendre
- Narrated by: L. Joseph Letendre
- Length: 1 hr and 7 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Preparing for Confession has been extremely popular ever since it was first published in 1987. Ancient Faith Publishing is pleased to bring to the public an expanded edition of this eminently useful booklet, which offers practical advice for preparation and answers questions such as, “What is sin?” and “What is the priest’s role?” This is the guide every Orthodox Christian needs for a more powerful experience of the sacrament of confession.
-
-
Clear understanding of the Sacrament of Confession
- By Roxanne Prager on 06-05-23
-
The Lord of Spirits
- An Orthodox Christian Framework for the Unseen World and Spiritual Warfare
- By: Andrew Stephen Damick
- Narrated by: Andrew Stephen Damick
- Length: 8 hrs and 7 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The modern world doesn't acknowledge but is nevertheless haunted by spirits—angels, demons, and saints. In our time, many yearn to break free of the prison of a flat, secular materialism, to see and to know reality as it truly is. What is this spiritual reality like? How do we engage with it well? How do we permeate everyday life with spiritual presence?
-
-
putting pieces together
- By Amazon Customer on 04-19-24
-
The Ancient Faith Psalter
- By: Monks of the Orthodox Church
- Narrated by: Fr. John Oliver
- Length: 8 hrs and 34 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
A dedicated group of Orthodox monks (who wish to remain anonymous) have created a fresh English translation of the Masoretic Hebrew text of the Psalter, corrected to the Septuagint. A frequently asked question: The Psalms aren't in numerical order in this Psalter. Why is that? Answer: That was done intentionally. This edition of the Psalter was created for prayer, at home or in church, rather than for reference. It's not just another Book of Psalms.
-
-
Excellent in every way.
- By Amazon Customer on 02-10-17
-
Arise O God
- The Gospel of Christ’s Defeat of Demons, Sin, and Death
- By: Andrew Stephen Damick
- Narrated by: Andrew Stephen Damick
- Length: 2 hrs and 49 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The gospel of Jesus Christ is not about what Jesus can do for your life. It is not even the answer to the question, “How can I be saved?” It is the declaration of a victory. In his coming to earth, his suffering, and his Resurrection, Christ conquered demons, sin, and death. In Arise, O God, author and podcaster Fr. Andrew Stephen Damick introduces us to the spiritual war that Christ won by his victory, how we are caught in that war’s cosmic crossfire, what the true content of the gospel is—and how we are to respond.
-
-
Clarity
- By Genevi on 08-31-21
-
A Basic Guide to Eastern Orthodox Theology
- Introducing Beliefs and Practices
- By: Eve Tibbs
- Narrated by: Eve Tibbs
- Length: 6 hrs and 58 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Eve Tibbs offers a comprehensive, yet very accessible, introduction to the beliefs and practices of the Eastern Orthodox Church for Western listeners. Tibbs has devoted her career to translating the Orthodox faith to an evangelical audience, and she has over 20 years of experience teaching this material to students. Assuming no prior knowledge of Orthodox theology, this survey covers the basic ideas of Eastern Orthodox Christianity, from its origins at Pentecost to the present day.
-
-
Disappointed
- By R on 05-14-22
By: Eve Tibbs
-
Reclaiming the Great Commission
- A Roadmap to Parish Health
- By: Evan Armatas
- Narrated by: Evan Armatas
- Length: 5 hrs and 54 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
In Reclaiming the Great Commission, Fr. Evan Armatas offers a roadmap to help us get back on track. Relying on his 20 years of parish experience, Holy Scripture, and insights from research and his visits with churches across the US, he discusses how you and your community can implement changes that will transform, revitalize, and renew your parish.
-
-
Not about sharing the Gospel
- By Manuel on 06-16-24
By: Evan Armatas
-
Preparing for Confession
- By: L. Joseph Letendre
- Narrated by: L. Joseph Letendre
- Length: 1 hr and 7 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Preparing for Confession has been extremely popular ever since it was first published in 1987. Ancient Faith Publishing is pleased to bring to the public an expanded edition of this eminently useful booklet, which offers practical advice for preparation and answers questions such as, “What is sin?” and “What is the priest’s role?” This is the guide every Orthodox Christian needs for a more powerful experience of the sacrament of confession.
-
-
Clear understanding of the Sacrament of Confession
- By Roxanne Prager on 06-05-23
-
The Lord of Spirits
- An Orthodox Christian Framework for the Unseen World and Spiritual Warfare
- By: Andrew Stephen Damick
- Narrated by: Andrew Stephen Damick
- Length: 8 hrs and 7 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The modern world doesn't acknowledge but is nevertheless haunted by spirits—angels, demons, and saints. In our time, many yearn to break free of the prison of a flat, secular materialism, to see and to know reality as it truly is. What is this spiritual reality like? How do we engage with it well? How do we permeate everyday life with spiritual presence?
-
-
putting pieces together
- By Amazon Customer on 04-19-24
-
The Ancient Faith Psalter
- By: Monks of the Orthodox Church
- Narrated by: Fr. John Oliver
- Length: 8 hrs and 34 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
A dedicated group of Orthodox monks (who wish to remain anonymous) have created a fresh English translation of the Masoretic Hebrew text of the Psalter, corrected to the Septuagint. A frequently asked question: The Psalms aren't in numerical order in this Psalter. Why is that? Answer: That was done intentionally. This edition of the Psalter was created for prayer, at home or in church, rather than for reference. It's not just another Book of Psalms.
-
-
Excellent in every way.
- By Amazon Customer on 02-10-17
-
Arise O God
- The Gospel of Christ’s Defeat of Demons, Sin, and Death
- By: Andrew Stephen Damick
- Narrated by: Andrew Stephen Damick
- Length: 2 hrs and 49 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The gospel of Jesus Christ is not about what Jesus can do for your life. It is not even the answer to the question, “How can I be saved?” It is the declaration of a victory. In his coming to earth, his suffering, and his Resurrection, Christ conquered demons, sin, and death. In Arise, O God, author and podcaster Fr. Andrew Stephen Damick introduces us to the spiritual war that Christ won by his victory, how we are caught in that war’s cosmic crossfire, what the true content of the gospel is—and how we are to respond.
-
-
Clarity
- By Genevi on 08-31-21
-
Know the Faith
- A Handbook for Orthodox Christians and Inquirers
- By: Michael Shanbour
- Narrated by: Darrell Smith
- Length: 9 hrs and 50 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Over the centuries since the Great Schism between the Eastern and Western Churches, the two groups have diverged to the point that they often no longer understand each other’s vocabulary, let alone the fundamental concepts on which each faith is built. Know the Faith is an attempt to present Orthodox Christianity in a way Western Christians can understand, grounding each point in Scripture and patristic theology, with comparisons to what Catholics and Protestants believe.
-
-
A handbook for everyone!
- By Amazon Customer on 04-01-21
By: Michael Shanbour
-
Apocrypha
- An Introduction to Extra-Biblical Literature
- By: Stephen De Young
- Narrated by: Stephen De Young
- Length: 8 hrs and 27 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Many Christians today divide ancient Jewish and Christian literature into two categories: what is in the Bible and what is not. The Christian East, however, has traditionally described a third category considered beneficial for Christians to listen to in the home: “apocrypha.” These texts, from the centuries before and after the Incarnation of Jesus Christ—beyond even the larger canons of the Orthodox and Roman Catholic Old Testaments—reveal to us the religious world and theological framework of the apostles and early Church Fathers.
-
-
Great Intro Into Apocryphal Literature
- By Christina on 07-15-23
By: Stephen De Young
-
Christ in the Psalms
- By: Patrick Henry Reardon
- Narrated by: John Maddex
- Length: 16 hrs and 39 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Christ in the Psalms takes the listener on a thought-provoking and enlightening pilgrimage through this beloved prayer book of the Church. Lively and highly devotional, this audiobook holds a wealth of insight into the beloved Scriptures, the world of the Early Church, and the Apostles themselves.
-
On the Divine Names and the Mystical Theology
- By: Dionysius the Areopagite
- Narrated by: Ethan Fifield
- Length: 5 hrs and 17 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The author of this work identifies himself as Dionysios the Areopagite, the Athenian convert of St. Paul the Apostle mentioned in Acts 17:34. There are various legends surrounding the figure of Dionysius, who became a symbol of the spread of the gospel to the Greek world. A tradition quickly arose that he was the first bishop of Cyprus or of Milan, and that he authored the Epistle to the Hebrews. According to Eusebius, he was the first bishop of Athens.
-
-
Love this.
- By A from VA on 03-02-23
-
On the Cosmic Mystery of Jesus Christ
- Popular Patristics Series, Book 25
- By: Saint Maximus Confessor
- Narrated by: Jonah Martin
- Length: 5 hrs and 53 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The last half of the 20th century saw the establishment of the reputation of St Maximus the Confessor as the greatest of all Byzantine theologians, with a wholeness of vision that speaks directly to many of our concerns today. Until very recently, however, little of his work has been available in English translation, save for some collections of brief reflections arranged in centuries and a few brief treatises, too easily classified as "spirituality."
-
-
Maximus and Jordan Daniel Wood
- By Kindle Customer on 07-15-24
-
From Object to Icon
- The Struggle for Spiritual Vision in a Pornographic World
- By: Andrew Williams
- Narrated by: Andrew Williams
- Length: 6 hrs and 37 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Since the advent of the internet, it has become increasingly obvious that our society suffers from a pornography problem—and Orthodox Christians are no exception. While many practical resources are available to help those who struggle with pornography use, these fail to address the problem at its deeper, spiritual root.
-
-
Naked and Seen
- By Manuel on 06-20-24
By: Andrew Williams
What listeners say about Toolkit for Spiritual Growth
Average customer ratingsReviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- John W Conrad
- 05-15-23
Very good!
Father was very clear and to the point. Though I was aware of some things already it was good to hear again. This has been very helpful.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Amazon Customer
- 01-30-21
Great intro for those wanting to know more about orthodoxy
Great intro for those wanting to know more about orthodox Christianity. I will keep a few copies of these books handy in my parish for those interested.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Despina C Siolas
- 12-22-20
Great book
easy to understand with good points to reflect on. Great audio book. Will listen again
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Paul
- 02-10-23
Great balanced authentic perspectives on Spirituality
Father Evan speaks from the heart about Spiritual practice in the Orthodox Church in North American English. His presentation is tempered, and balanced between the various facets of Christian tradition as lived and practiced by Orthodox Christians, based on the Apostolic tradition of the Church, the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, Church Fathers and Mothers, and his life in the Church in his role as Priest and Spiritual counsellor.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Rev. Deacon Michael
- 07-01-22
A Fantastic Encouragement for Orthodox Christians
Fr. Evan has composed a perfectly prosed encouragement to modern Orthodox Christian’s. Calling us to return to the ancient practices of the Church. The wisdom contained in this small but powerful book is the wisdom from everlasting. May Christ our God help us, save us, and have mercy us +
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Kelbert McFarland
- 12-20-20
The book I've been searching 5 years for.
When I became an Orthodox Christian, Father Evan was one of the priest I turned to for many of the "ABC's" of Orthodoxy. His podcast on Ancient Faith Radio were and still are a huge resource for me to learn how to enter into the traditions of the Orthodox faith. Oh how I wish I had this book 5 years ago. What I pieced together from different podcast and random homilies has been beautifully gathered in this practical guide. The guide begins with a very practical tour through the traditions of the Church lived out through the services and at home. What seems simple and what's seamlessly passed down to one born into the Orthodox Christian Church is sometimes missed to a convert like myself. This book sheds light on many of those practices such as setting up an icon corner at home, why and how we prostrate and so much more. I particularly loved the section on fasting and the journey Fr. Evan takes us through the Church calendar and the different fasting periods of the Church. As an inquirer I never fully understood why my friends who were Orthodox spent so much time fasting. This book clearly explains the why for many things we do as Christians. The final section on Alms giving was the part I approached with a bit of fear. It's been the one instruction of our Lords that I never fully had a grasp on. I know it's more than just tossing money at a charity though that may be good. After reading the chapters on Almsgiving I have a much better grasp on the mind of the Church concerning this. Again, I do wish this book was written 5 years ago. However I'm extremely thankful that I've found something that will be included with all gifts to any future friend or godchildren entering into the Church. It's the perfect toolkit.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Matt McKillip
- 03-26-23
Excellent concise book on growing in faith
I'm not Orthodox but rather am Catholic. I found this to be the best book on prayer, fasting and almsgiving I've ever read or heard. It has actionable steps and golden nuggets of advice to help one grow in faith. I could not put it down.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
- Christopher Grant
- 11-26-20
Tools to get started in the spiritual disciplines
Sometimes, when facing an intimidating project, all that is needed to inspire confidence and get started is simply having the necessary tools and good instructions. In Toolkit for Spiritual Growth, Fr. Evan Armatas offers the necessary tools to get started in a life of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. He draws on the Holy Scriptures, the example of Christ and the saints, as well as his experience as a parish priest to present the Christian reader with a beginner’s guide to the basics of spiritual discipline. As an introduction, this book is not too lengthy or verbose. It is divided into three chapters, one for each of the disciplines, and each chapter can be read or listened to on Audible in less than an hour. It is not an academic or polemical work, but Fr. Evan does offer some biblical justification for these practices as he interacts with anticipated questions and objections. In his chapter on prayer he answers the questions, “What should prayer look like, physically? How is it done? Where should one pray? What should one say and when?” He discusses liturgical prayer, according to the “rhythm and method of the Church,” versus extemporaneous prayer. And he outlines how to set up a prayer corner. The chapter on almsgiving encourages Christians to view charitable giving as more comprehensive than feeding and clothing the poor, and to not overlook the use of individual gifts and talents in meeting the varying needs of others, starting within one’s own home. In his final chapter, Fr. Evan explains the purpose and meaning of the regular fasting days and seasons of the Orthodox Church calendar, and he offers some guidelines for fasting. I appreciated Fr. Evan’s constant reminder that “matter matters” and “what we do with our physical selves’ matters”. When we pray, our prayer space, lighting, direction, routine, posture, and attire all mean something. When we give to others, putting ourselves in a space of real physical contact is important. When we fast, we fast from physical food. I also appreciated his stress on seeking the guidance of one’s priest as these practices are communal and Christians are not meant to go it alone. This book gives the reader the practical guidance and encouragement to get started in these disciplines and it whets the appetite to learn more about them from the fathers and saints of the church.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
1 person found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Maria Bahnareanu
- 05-03-23
very practical guide and enlightning
very practical guide and enlightning. I highly recommend for establshing a good Orthodox life. Love it.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Erin Mumma
- 01-06-21
Good introduction or refresher
A straightforward book of crucial practices. Good for refreshing or introducing or helping explain why Orthodox Christians live this way. Fr Armitas offers his explanations with a firm base on our physical needs as human beings, a welcome approach and much needed. Highly recommended.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!