He often used folk expressions in order to make profound, mystical realities understood by all Christians of his time. Bishop Theophan--young, zealous and energetic--felt a dire need to raise Orthodox women to a higher spiritual level in a society which was rapidly changing, going in step with modern ways.
KINDLING THE DIVING SPARK offers his instructions given to women, examining many essentials of the spiritual life, including: how the heart is purified, inner suffering, spiritual zeal, how to train oneself to pray, and mystical union with the Lord. It contains 20 sermons to convents and a brief Life with unique information appearing for the first time, accompanied by rare photographs. Though originally offered as a volume of sermons given in women's monasteries, it comprises a conscious teaching of spirituality suited to the needs of both men and women, whether lay or monastic.
