In the Shadow of the Saints

Two days ago, I took out from my library the hagiography of St. Anthony the Great, which was published by An-Nour Publications in 1995. For his feast tomorrow, preparations are due. The hagiography stirred up old memories in me. Visions have their own beginnings. I remember that the regeneration youths had decided to distribute this hagiography to our parishioners shortly after its publication. They said two things, to encourage the brethren to read that which is beneficial, and to bring them together for an open discussion on edifying experiences. Weeks later, they organized a public meeting for the readers of the hagiography. What happened in the meeting showed that hagiography literature, like any literature, needs interpretation. How can a human being survive twenty years on bread and water, enclosed in a deserted fort, without his body becoming flabby? One of the brethren elaborated in his response to what the hagiography teaches by word, example, symbol and encouragement… Its whole aim is to make our hearts fruitful with the love of virtue. The most beautiful thing in life is to spend your time in the shadow of the Saints.