A Little Corner of Paradise

Elder Paisius (Olaru) of Sihla was one of the most beloved spiritual fathers of Romania in recent times. Living in Sihăstria Monastery — where his spiritual son, Elder Cleopa, had recently become abbot — he became renowned for his spiritual wisdom and discernment, confessing the monks and laymen who came to the monastery. Eventually he moved to the nearby Sihla Skete, where he could continue his life of prayer in greater solitude.

Throughout the Communist period, he was a refuge and shelter for those who desired to preserve their faith. A father of love and hope, he focused the gaze of his flock on Christ and His Heavenly Kingdom, expressing the wish that the Lord grant them a "little corner of Paradise."

Included in the present volume are the life of this remarkable elder, many of his spiritual teachings, recollections of his spiritual children, interviews conducted with him, his letters, and his poetry.

Softcover, 276 pp.