Gary Neal Hansen

Theology. It's good for you.

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You are here: Home / Archives for Sayings of the Desert Fathers

“Be a Real Christian”: Charge to the Graduating Class, 2014

May 17, 2014 by Gary Neal Hansen Leave a Comment

As you leave seminary behind, as you move into your calling as servants of Christ, please, I beg you, take care what you aim for. Think hard about the goal, the target at which you are aiming your life. You want goals for your work and your ministry of course, but think, more importantly, about the […]

Filed Under: Saints, Theology Tagged With: Abba Joseph, Abba Lot, Desert Fathers, Greatest Commandment, Gregory Nazianzen, Gregory of Nazianzus, Loving God, Sayings of the Desert Fathers

How to Really Enjoy Your Summer Vacation: Advice from a Fourth Century Monk

May 13, 2014 by Gary Neal Hansen Leave a Comment

Did you get to the end of vacation last year and wonder why you were disappointed? Big expectations of adventure and rest swallowed up by Angry Birds and email? Time think ahead, even though Memorial Day is weeks away. Classes are over for the semester (though a two-week Doctor of Ministry intensive is looming). Time to think about Summer before […]

Filed Under: Monasticism, Prayer, Saints, Theology Tagged With: Accidie, Desert Fathers, Monasticism, Redeeming the time, Rhythm, Sayings of the Desert Fathers, Self-management, St. Anthony, Vacation

Want a Simple, Focused Christian Life? — St. Anthony of Egypt

January 17, 2014 by Gary Neal Hansen 1 Comment

Today is the memorial of St. Anthony of Egypt (c. 251-356), aka “Anthony the Great,” the prototypical “desert father.” I wanted to share a story about him that shows his character and priorities. Someone asked Abba Anthony, ‘What must one do in order to please God?’ The old man replied, ‘Pay attention to what I […]

Filed Under: Monasticism, Prayer, Saints, Theology Tagged With: Abba Anthony, Antony the Great, Benedicta Ward, desert father, Desert Fathers, Monasticism, Sayings of the Desert Fathers, St. Anthony

Theology. It’s good for you.

I'm a Church historian by trade. My writing, speaking, and teaching explores the Christian past to equip today's disciples. Join me here for regular posts on the best of theology, spirituality, community, and ministry. read more…

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