In this survey of Orthodox spirituality John Chryssavgis explores familiar themes such as liturgy and sacrament, theology, monasticism, hesychastic prayer, as well as ""the book of nature," spiritual direction, and "the scandal of the cross." John Chryssavgis studied in Athens and Oxford, and has taught theology in Sydney and Boston. He is theological advisor to the Ecumenical Patriarch on environmental issues. His books include In the Heart of the Desert: The Spirituality of the Desert Fathers and Mothers and Cosmic Grace - Humble Prayer: Ecological Initiatives of the Green Patriarch