Translated from the Russian by the Holy Nativity Convent, this biography of the Elder Moses of Optina (1782-1862), who founded the Skete of Saint John the Forerunner and established at Optina the eldership for which it became renowned, abounds in delightful examples of the wisdom with which he instilled a monastic understanding in his monks, of the loving generosity he showed to those in need, and of the humility and ingenuity with which he hid his virtues while dwelling in the midst of men, and was taken for a pious but unremarkable monk although he was adorned with the highest graces of the Holy Spirit. Includes many illustrations, two maps, a service to the Elder Moses, glossary and index. Sewn paperback. 396 pages.