Five Models of Spiritual Direction in the Early Church
Overview
In late antiquity the rising number of ascetics who joined the priesthood faced a pastoral dilemma. Should they follow a traditional, demonstrably administrative, approach to pastoral care, emphasizing doctrinal instruction, the care of the poor, and the celebration of the sacraments? Or should they bring to the parish the ascetic models of spiritual direction, characterized by a more personal spiritual father/spiritual disciple relationship? Five Models of Spiritual Direction in the Early Church explores the struggles of five clerics (Athanasius, Gregory Nazianzen, Augustine of Hippo, John Cassian, and Pope Gregory I) to reconcile their ascetic idealism with the reality of pastoral responsibility. Through a close reading of Greek and Latin texts, George E. Demacopoulos explores each pastor’s criteria for ordination, his supervision of subordinate clergy, and his methods of spiritual direction. He argues that the evolution in spiritual direction that occurred during this period reflected and informed broader developments in religious practices. Demacopoulos describes the way in which these authors shaped the medieval pastoral traditions of the East and the West. Each of the five struggled to balance the tension between his ascetic idealism and the realities of the lay church. Each offered distinct (and at times very different) solutions to that tension. The diversity among their models of spiritual direction demonstrates both the complexity of the problem and the variable nature of early Christianity. Scholars and students of late antiquity, the history of Christianity, and historical theology will find a great deal of interest in Five Models of Spiritual Direction in the Early Church. The book will also appeal to those who are actively engaged in Christian ministry.
- Explores the struggles of five clerics to reconcile their ascetic idealism with the reality of pastoral responsibility
- Explores each pastor’s criteria for ordination, his supervision of subordinate clergy, and his methods of spiritual direction
- Describes the way in which these authors shaped the medieval pastoral traditions of the East and the West
Demacopolous is the first to examine the impact of ascetic bishops on pastoral practice. To address his concerns he presents literary studies of five figures: Athanasius, Gregory Nazianzen, Augustine, Cassian, and Pope Gregory I.... Mastery of a wide variety of sources is evident throughout Demacopolous’s study... this book is solid and will be quite valuable to historical theologians, church historians, students of Christian spirituality and of the priesthood.
Theological Studies
The book explores the growing tensions arising from the legalization of Christianity after Constantine between clerical and ascetic pastoral traditions. As long as we continue to protect our discipline as one that must remain essentially contemplative and trusting, we may perhaps grow in good ways through the challenges presented by Five Models of Spiritual Direction.
Journal of Spiritual Formation and Soul Care
Is the pastoral office primarily one of activity, administration, and busyness? Or is it one of contemplation, quietness, and prayer? Which of these ideals should predominate in the life of a parish pastor? What ideal should predominate in the lives of his flock? These are issues and struggles which permeate the work of pastors. Demacopoulos’ book gives the opportunity to view that struggle in another time and place with perspectives and answers different than more current and familiar responses.”
Concordia Theological Quarterly