Oblate Program at Belmont Abbey, NC

Tag: Abba Joseph

The Meaning of Scripture

One day some old men came to see Abba Anthony. In the midst of them was Abba Joseph. Wanting to test them, the old man suggested a text from the Scriptures, and, beginning with the youngest, he asked them what it meant. Each gave his opinion as he was able. But to each one the… Read More ›

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We ought to weep, in order that we may persevere

Some Fathers went to Panephysis to see Abba Joseph and ask him what kind of reception they should give to the brethren to whom they gave lodging, whether they ought to mix with them and speak freely with them. Before they asked him, the old man said to his disciple, ‘Consider what I am going… Read More ›

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Finding Peace

Abba Joseph asked Abba Nisteros, “What should I do about my tongue, for I cannot control it?” The old man said to him, “When you speak, do you find peace?” He replied, “No.” The old man said to him, “If you do not find peace, why do you speak? Be silent, and when a conversation… Read More ›

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The Meaning of Scripture

Some old men once came to Abba Antony, among them Abba Joseph. Wishing to test them Abba Antony quoted some texts of holy Scripture and began to ask the younger among them what they meant. And each one had something to say. But he replied to them all, “You’re not quite there yet.” Then he… Read More ›

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Honour in the Sight of God

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“If thou wilt thou shalt be made wholly a flame.”

Abba Lot came to Abba Joseph and said: “Father, according as I am able, I keep my little rule, and my little fast, my prayer, meditation and contemplative silence; and according as I am able I strive to cleanse my heart of thoughts: now what more should I do?” The elder rose up in reply… Read More ›

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