* * * Father Valentin Mordasov, confessor of Pskov: Wondrous teachings and happenings Translation from Russian by Rev. Nicolae Creţu Published: 2011 Archpriest Valentin Mordasov, “the Pskov staretz,” was one of the best-known spiritual fathers who adorned the Russian church of the last 50 years. This humble rural priest, who over his 45 years of service knew no rest, received thousands of people from all over the former Soviet Union, for counsel, comfort and, quite often, casting out evil spirits, healing of physical ailments, help in all problems which defied human ability. He bequeathed to us many writings pervaded by the spirit of Patristic literature, which he knew and loved, among them the "Counsels of a Priest to His Parishioners", already published by Sophia publishing house. “A small prayer may become great. So may sin. Many lose their soul not because of great sins, but because of small ones. It has been said that we are responsible for every word. Beware of bad jokes, unrestrained laughter, idle talk and judging others. Remember that both the one who errs, and the one who judges his neighbour, are guilty before God. Eating one apple seems so little a sin, but by it the will of God was trespassed against, in heaven. Small sins are dangerous precisely because we deem them unimportant. However, a spark grows into a great flame, and these small sins can cause us to lose eternal bliss. By confessing it, however, the sinful thought loses its force and we no longer act upon it.” Archpriest Valentin Mordasov Format: 13 x 20 cm; 280 p. ISBN: 978-973-136-228-1 «« back