In the sixth century, a monk named John wrote a book outlining the stages of the spiritual life. He based his entire work on the image of the ladder of thirty r

John Climacus (c. 579-649) was abbot of the monastery of Catherine on Mount Sinai. His Ladder was the most widely used handbook of the ascetical life in the anc

Rituals, ceremonies and prayers may be shared by groups or used by individuals in private practice. These rites are designed for use by those who seek a way to