The question of whether monasticism is an invitation or a duty is a question that is frequently asked by the spiritual youth and zealous servants, who want to please their Creator but do not know how to choose their way. They want to hear God's voice in their life, chanting with the Psalmist -"Cause me to hear Your loving kindness in the morning, For in You do I trust; Cause me to know the way in which I should walk, For I lift up my soul to You. Deliver me, O Lord, from my enemies; In You I take shelter. Teach me to do Your will, For You are my God; Your Spirit is good. Lead me in the land of uprightness." (Psalm 143:8-10), and with Moses the Prophet: "Now therefore, I pray, if I have found grace in Your sight, show me now Your way, that I may know You and that I may find grace in Your sight. And consider that this nation is Your people." (Exodus 33:13), for the salvation of their souls: is it through monasticism for a life of prayer and worship, or priesthood for pastoral care in the world, or celibacy, concentrating one's life for service in the world, or getting married and having a blessed Christian family, and an exemplary house as that of Priscilla and Aquila. Here, we will try to highlight the monastic invitation, which may answer some of the questions the youth have asked and relieve those who are confused.

Selections From

THE SAYINGS Of THE DESERT FATHERS

With Kind Permission Of Cistercian Publication