Pray. Think. Act.: Make Better Decisions with the Desert Fathers

by J. Augustine Wetta

Father Augustine Wetta reaches back into monastic history to answer one of the most critical questions facing young people "How do I make up my mind?" With his characteristic wit and novel approach to classical art, Father Augustine looks to the wisdom of the Desert Fathers to unearth an ancient and highly efficient method for resolving life's most pressing dilemmas—even in the midst of distractions, temptations, and disruptions. Profoundly Biblical and astonishingly practical, these trailblazing saints laid the foundations of Christian discernment by combining their genius for interpreting Scripture with their uncompromising search for the truth. Their patience and remarkable sense of humor gave their words a practicality that speaks as clearly today as it did in the third century. In three steps, each broken down into three parts, the Desert Fathers will teach you how to make decisions in a way that is peaceful, joyful, focused, realistic, and open to the ever-prodding finger of God. As he did in his best-selling Humility Rules, Father Wetta illustrates each chapter with color reproductions of famous works of art that he has embellished with comic flourishes. He provides a discernment worksheet to help anyone with making a difficult decision.

Genres: Catholic, Nonfiction, Religion

131 pages, Paperback

Published March 5, 2023

Reviews

[Jeff Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fr. Wetta is very good at presenting material while you are laughing along the way. You then realize the solid wisdom that was snuck past your guard.

[J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've read this, I am now in the middle of applying the principles now.

[Logan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short and to the point without a lot of fluff but still provides lots of wisdom.

[Emmy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a huge fan of Fr. Wetta, so you can imagine how excited I was when I discovered he had a new book out! Great read, full of excellent advice and anecdotes from the Desert Fathers and Benedictine monks.

If you liked Fr. Wetta's book Humility Rules: Saint Benedict's Twelve-Step Guide to Genuine Self-Esteem, then I definitely recommend this one. Very similar in terms of format. And likewise, if you liked this book, check out Humility Rules. Both are great. Since my issue is more with pride than with indecision, the other book worked better for me, but I can see myself rereading both books again and again and again.

[Patrick · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wish this book were longer. It somewhat follows Humility Rules: Saint Benedict's Twelve-Step Guide to Genuine Self-Esteem--which I liked a good deal--in format (quote from source heads each section followed by discussion) but I wish there were more of those quotes here and discussion of the ideas. I think the book just is half of what I wanted (yes desert fathers, no decision making). YMMV.

[Debra · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun little book with some great little teachings. This is a book to give you the basics on how to make decision and by using time honored advice all wrapped up in a little humor. I love this book just as I loved his first two books.
This book would be great for all high school graduates and even college graduates. Let them learn how to move forward in life with the aid of the Lord.

[Laura McAninch · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a quick, insightful yet easy read. I failed to update promptly upon finishing it, but I cannot recommend enough books by Brother Augustine. I already passed this book along months ago after finishing it. At any age, this is relevant, but I especially bought it in anticipation of our growing young adults.
You won't ever regret picking up books by Brother Augustine !

[Trenton Rickels · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a sweet, little read on how to approach decision making. The author, a Benedictine monk, uses quotes from the desert fathers that really hit the heart of why decisions can be difficult to make. He also provides a worksheet area to practice the formula he provides. I will definitely come back to this as needed.

[Ramon · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great book. The author gave good practical and spiritual wisdom on making decisions. The author used a lot of humor and the explanations were easy to understand. I will keep this short book close to read again.

[CatholicWeeb · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pretty Good, It introduced me to the Desert Fathers. Found it pretty interesting.

[Gavin Gunter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid book. Easy read, but good read. Only took 1 day

[Tanner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I strongly recommend this book. I love the way the book is organized: the little wisdoms of the Desert Father, some do’s and don’ts and finally a worksheet at the end.

[Ellie Austin · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favorite part of this book is the excerpts from Fr Wetta’s journal in the appendix.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Always humorous but full of insight, this book is a treat!