The spiritual counsels of Father John of Kronstadt

by John of Kronstadt, W. Jardine Grisbrooke

Selected translations from the writings of the influential 19th century Russian mystic, revealing his spiritual yet practical approach to the problems of living the Christian life.

Genres: Christianity, Theology

272 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 1987

About the author

Ivan Ilyich Sergiev, known to his contemporaries as Fr. John of Kronstadt, was the most revered figure of the Orthodox Church of Russia in the half-century leading up to the Bolshevik revolution of 1917. In 1964 the Russian Orthodox Church outside Russia formally glorified him as a Saint. St John of Kronstadt is best known through his spiritual journal My Life in Christ, that has been read by millions.

Reviews

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

As the title says, these are select passages from the larger work "My Life in Christ." The passages are arranged by topic, and are generally one paragraph or less, which makes for easier reading...I read them a few at a time over the course of many months. There is plenty to think about in them. It amazes me to think that the writings from this spiritual counselor to Tsar Nicholas's family (only one of his many duties) are still so very relevant today, a world away. Just goes to show that spiritual truths are universal. My only very tiny quibble is that sometimes the passages lack context and thus are difficult to understand. Hope I can tackle the bigger book some day!

[Nick Valdez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommend this book. It is so wonderfully and passionately written and it really challenged me to seek God more sincerely. This is a book that you can read chronologically (as I did) or as a reference to seek advise in different areas of the Christian life. This book really inspired my prayer life as well and really revealed some sin in my life that I wasn’t fully aware of. This book has had a profound impact on my spiritual life and I am confident that it would do the same for anyone that reads it.

[w gall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pure gold. Aside from his discouragement of walks ( in my opinion), this is a companion to Scripture to live by. St. John holds up the high call of God to thinking, feeling, and acting in a God-pleasing Way.

[Maureen E · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful book from a wonderful saint. Before reading this I wasn’t quite sure why so many people found St. John so wonderful. Now I know. If you’re Orthodox, read it. (September 2007)

[Russell Ricciardi]

A gift from a good friend (from church).