Monasticism distills the essence of Catholic spirituality for all time and for all Christians. This volume concentrates on three of the finest Christian texts available and provides both first-time and advanced readers with an essential review of Christian monasticicsm and the foundational principles of Catholic prayer life, spiritual combat, contemplation, and communal living. St. Anthony of the Desert, St. Benedict of Nursia, and St. Bernard of Clairvaux rise above all other figures in Catholic history as guides. These three texts - The Life of St. Anthony, the Rule of St. Benedict, and the Twelve Degrees of Humility and Pride - are offered a short path to the essence of Christian monasticism and authentic Christian teaching. Taken together, these men and their writings will allow the reader to ascend the very heights of Christian monasticism and arrive at certain firm principles by which to evaluate and deepen his commitment to the Faith. With illuminating introductions and a new, updated translation of St. Benedict's Rule by Dr. William Fahey, these classic texts are primed for the contemporary reader.Paperback 240 pages