Moral teachings of Saint Theophan the Recluse to the Tambov flock in 1859-1860

Abstract

The Tambov period of the archpastoral service of Saint Theophan the Recluse became the time when his preaching talent, revealed in previous years, manifested itself in full. This is eloquently evidenced by the large number of sermons he delivered in the monasteries and churches of the Tambov diocese. Let us consider some of the sermons of Saint Theophan, delivered in 1859-1860, that is, when he gradually became acquainted with his Tambov flock, acquiring his first experience of hierarchical service. The sermons of this period vary in content, but most of them have a moral focus, contain many instructions and exhortations to believers, and are a valuable source for researching the life and church activities of St. Theophan and studying the history of the Tambov diocese. The moral teachings contained in the sermons of St. Theophan attract our contemporaries to his legacy and make him an extremely sought-after spiritual mentor and writer. This happens, firstly, because in his words he touches on spiritual issues that are important for believers at all times, and secondly, because he vividly and frankly responds to the challenges of his contemporary reality, which are in tune with our time.