Counsels on the Christian Priesthood

Saint John of Kronstadt (1829-1908) is known as a great wonderworker and a man of prayer. He possessed an evangelical fervor, almost unbounded pastoral energy authenticated by his simple and clear faith in God. He was a true shepherd of his flock who labored zealously for their salvation and material care and well-being.
In our modern secular era, amidst the current debates over the role in the Christian ministry of priest and pastor, St. John appears like some miracle-working ascetic of old, with the same spiritual gifts which God bestowed on the ancient saints. When he spoke of prayer, he spoke from personal experience. He showed by blazing example that the first and foremost role of the priest is to be a man of prayer.
Although these selections are directed primarily at priests, the laity may profit greatly from the present book. The words of St. John are for everyone who desires to devote more attention to their souls and raise their thought to God. St. John believed that every person, insofar as he is devout, could draw near to God, the Theotokos, and the saints. These Counsels on the Christian Priesthood encourage us to open our hearts to prayer, which can enliven, strengthen and even heal our souls and bodies.