St. Seraphim of Sarov

by Valentine Zander

Orthodox spirituality has produced many holy and famous men, but none in recent centuries to compare with Seraphim, staretz of the monastery of Sarov. After an initial period as a monk, working with the community, he was led to become a hermit, living deep in the forest in a world of solitude which was only destroyed when he was attacked by brigands. He returned to the community and in 1825, after fifteen years in silence, he began to receive visitors again and to spend his energies in their spiritual direction. By means of his faith and asceticism he performed a number of miracles. His fame and humility brought a steady stream of visitors, religious and royalty alike, to him for advice. His humility and concern for people made Sarov a center of pilgrimage until the events of the 1917 revolution. Zander has constructed this biography from the notebooks of people who knew him, the nuns whose spiritual director he became, the people whose lives he influenced, and the clergy who sought his advice. She adds to this information her own recollections of pilgrimages to Sarov before 1917. The life of the staretz is told with a touching simplicity which allows his life and work to be their own witnesses.All four books help to illumine the spiritual tradition so faithfully embodied in St Seraphim.

Genres: Nonfiction, Religion, Biography, Theology, Spirituality

168 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1975

Reviews

[Reed Goforth · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book I’ve read on St Seraphim. This is more of a biography that contains some of his teachings. St Seraphim is one of a kind, one of the Greatest Saints from Russia period. He is also my soon to be Patron Saint. Seraphim’s story is beyond inspiring and beautiful. Reading about his life will make you realize how far you are and how much you can grow in Christ. Saints like Seraphim are a testament to the Orthodox Church and her ability to produce great saints. St Seraphim of Sarov pray for us!

[Marc Pearce · Rating 5 out of 5]

A captivating narrative, chocked full of heart-warming stories which perfectly paint a picture of the genuine warmth and holiness of this saint. Lay aside all of your earthly cares, and dive into this one to see for yourself. Simply a fantastic read! Nothing more needs to be said.

[David Di Giacomo · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the first books I was given upon becoming an Orthodox inquirer. I re-read it every year or so. Always refreshing.

[Simon · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a good hagiography but it felt as if it was incomplete.

[Bishoy Hany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Light, Life, Love and warmth full this book or that life

[Allison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chock full of wisdom, this biography gives a deeper insight into the life of a saint closer to our own time. A good one to read and reread.

[Joseph Miller · Rating 2 out of 5]

Curious.

[Kristofer Carlson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful book about a recent Saint