The original monks of the Egyptian desert have left us tremendous treasures that speak to us across the centuries. Their survival is a testament to the Spirit of God which inspired them, and their words have much to offer us today.
The Rule of Saint Pachomios was revealed to the saint by an angel. After receiving this prayer rule, he maintained it faithfully throughout his life, reciting it at every hour of the day and night. It is a simple prayer rule and ideal for memorization, which can be said in any place or at any time.
The Service of the Twelve Psalms developed out of the early monastic services, which featured the structured reading of the entire Psalter each day. Over time, other hymns and prayers came to be added to the daily services; but at the same time, the simpler Twelve Psalms service remained as a substitute for Matins, Vespers, and the Lesser Hours. It was prayed especially in small monasteries, or sketes, where the proper liturgical resources were not available, or monks did not have the skill or ability to perform the standard services. Note that the Twelve Psalms are not meant to replace the regular prayer rule, but to compliment it, as church services compliment our daily prayers.
In today’s world, we see how easily our access to the Church’s divine services can be cut off, whether due to pandemic, civil unrest, or violence. God forbid, but we cannot take for granted that we will always be able to attend Church when we desire it. To remain in the life of the Church, we may be required to take on the responsibility of prayer ourselves. In this, we can look to our spiritual ancestors of the desert, who became like angels in their simple lives of constant prayer.
Whether prevented from attending Church due to illness, travel, or other circumstances, or if one simply desires to observe the Church’s cycle of prayer in an uncomplicated way, these time-tested prayers have led countless souls on the road to salvation.
Book Details
- Dimensions: 4 x 5.75 inches
- Cover: Softcover
- Pages: 48
- Language: English (modern formal)
- Published by Saint Ignatius Orthodox Press in partnership with Legacy Icons
-
Prayers of the desert
A wonderful little book to get you started on a rich prayer life. The rule is simple to follow and easy to memorize. Highly recommended
-
Prayers of the Desert
Prayers of the Desert is a beautiful gem. This little prayer book was my introduction to St. Pachomios and his contributions to early monasticism. sThe simplicity of the Rule of St. Pachomios and the Service of the Twelve Psalms makes maintaining a prayer rule easy when time constraints and the demands of daily life prohibit keeping the entire Horologion. Following the Rule of St. Pachomios allows one to be united in common prayer with not only the early Christians and monks who continue to pray with the angels, but also with contemporary Christians worldwide who follow a daily Rule of Prayer. In my home I keep this prayer book at my side and I purchased a second copy to carry in my purse so that I can take comfort in the psalms and pray at all times and in all places. Prayers of the Desert is truly a blessing in my life. I believe it will be a blessing in yours, too.
Shipping
We can ship to virtually any address in the world. Note that there are restrictions on some products, and some products cannot be shipped to international destinations.
When you place an order, we will estimate shipping and delivery dates for you based on the availability of your items and the shipping options you choose. Depending on the shipping provider you choose, shipping date estimates may appear on the shipping quotes page.
Please note that our icons and some other items are hand-crafted and made-to-order. Allow time for production. Please visit our Shipping FAQ page for more information.
Return Policy
We allow returns for many of our items, but restrictions apply. Please visit our Return Policy page for more information.
Customers Also Viewed
Saint Ignatius Orthodox Press
The Holy Apostle
The Holy Apostle, also known as the Apostolos, Apostol, or Epistle Book, contains the full text of the Book of Acts and the Pauline and Catholic Epistles, marked according to liturgical use in the...
Saint Ignatius Orthodox Press
Didache: The Teaching of the Twelve Apostles
The Didache, written during the Apostolic era (1st century AD) is an ancient guidebook to Christian life and worship which is truly enlightening to read. This new translation exclusively available...
'Smokeless' Incense Burner
This amazing candle incense burner features a compact and simple design, exclusively from Legacy Icons. Combine the gentle fragrance of your favorite incense and gentle glow of candle light as you...
Deluxe 'Smokeless' Incense Burner
With this amazing candle incense burner, exclusively from Legacy Icons, combine the gentle fragrance of your favorite incense and the gentle glow of candle light as you offer your prayers to God...
Harrowing of Hades (Chora) Resurrection Icon - F138
The Harrowing of Hades is the icon most often used to represent the Resurrection of Christ: the Feast of Feasts, Pascha (Easter). In this scene, Christ is seen coming out of the dark pit of Hades,...
Home Size Charcoal
Ideal for use at home, in smaller spaces, and in shorter church services, each roll of Home Size Charcoal contains seven 22mm tablets. Tablets light quickly and last for 25-30 minutes, or for home...
Cross of Golgotha - W107
The Cross of Golgotha is an elaboration on the symbol of the Cross, and is especially common in Orthodox monasticism. The meaning of the text is as follows (from top to bottom): The King of...
Top 10 Incense Favorites
This collection includes our customers' top 10 all-time favorite incenses, with a selection of bold, sweet, and gentle fragrances. These high-quality incenses will fill your church or home with...
Pocket Psalter
The Pocket Psalter is a must-have for your daily prayer. This popular translation of the Psalter by the monks of Holy Transfiguration Monastery is widely used in the English-speaking Orthodox Church...
The Supper at Emmaus (Athos) Icon - F240
After the Resurrection, Christ met Luke and Cleopas on the road to Emmaus. They did not recognize His resurrected body, and they invited Him to come and eat with them. At the table, Christ broke...
12 Month Calendar (Menaion) Icon - F263
This breathtaking icon features the major saint(s) commemorated each day, for every day of the year. With nearly 1000 saints featured, you will be astonished when you see it. The centerpiece is...
Red Egg Dye
This high-quality dye, will enable you to easily prepare traditional red eggs for your Pascha and Easter celebrations. Each packet makes enough dye for up to 20 eggs. Instructions Dissolve dye...