Notes on the Lecture: The Way of a Pilgrim and the Filocalia

Introduction

• The Way of a Pilgrim: Story of a 19th-century anonymous Russian pilgrim.
• Theme: Continuous prayer and understanding how to pray without ceasing.
• Key phrase from St. Paul: "Pray without ceasing."
• The pilgrim learns about the Jesus Prayer: "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner."

The Pilgrim's Knapsack

1. The Filocalia:
   • A book the pilgrim carried, central to his spiritual journey.
   • Publication Details: First published in Venice in 1782, 12200 pages, Greek text.
   • Content: 36 authors (4th to 15th century), mostly Greek writers, with one exception (St. John Cassian).
   • Focus on inner work (prayer) rather than external activities (church services, fasting, social action).

Questions Explored

1. What is the Filocalia?

• Definition: A collection of spiritual writings focused on the life of prayer and inner spirituality.
• Notable Features: Includes references to baptism and Eucharist but is mainly concerned with mystical teachings.
• Censorship: Endorsed by censors of Padua, affirming it contained nothing contrary to Catholic faith.

2. Who edited the Filocalia?

• Editors: St. Macarius of Corinth and St. Nicodemus of the Holy Mountain.
  • St. Macarius: Aristocratic background, briefly a bishop, then a wandering monk.
  • St. Nicodemus: Monk with a photographic memory, authored many texts, focused on mystical theology.
• Role in Filocalia:
  • Macarius selected texts, wrote introductions, and oversaw publication.
  • Nicodemus worked on editorial tasks and contributed to the theological framework.

3. Why was the Filocalia prepared?

• Historical Context: Late 18th century marked a turning point for Greek Orthodoxy amid Western influences and secularism.
• Crisis in Orthodoxy: Concerns over apostasy among Orthodox Christians due to Ottoman rule and Western secular influences.
• Kolyvades Movement: Advocated for strict adherence to Orthodox traditions in response to secularism.
  • Emphasized frequent communion and connection with Orthodox theological roots.

Purpose of the Filocalia

• Restoration of Faith: Aimed to renew spiritual life and Orthodox tradition among Christians.
• Target Audience: Intended for all Christians, not just monks or clergy.
• Eucharistic Focus: Encouraged regular communion as a means of spiritual nourishment.

Conclusion

• Title Meaning: Filocalia means "love of beauty," representing a deep appreciation for God and spiritual beauty.
• Unity of Purpose: The Filocalia aims to provide a coherent spiritual guide amidst the challenges of the time.
• Future discussions will explore the unity and deeper meanings within the Filocalia.