In the quiet stillness of the hermitage, where my life is centered on prayer and reflection, the tools that guide me through study and contemplation, along with the Holy Spirit, are more than just books—they are companions on my continuing spiritual journey on this earth. Each one plays a vital role in grounding me in the Scriptures, tradition, and the cycles of daily devotion. Here, I’d like to share the essentials that I rely on for my quiet time, study, and prayer.

American Standard Version (ASV) Byzantine edition. The American Standard Version of the Bible (and to a lesser degree, the English Revised Version), provides a trustworthy and literal translation of the Bible, one that is both accurate and familiar. It has a clarity that draws me into the Word of God, allowing me to engage deeply with the text while preserving the sacred beauty of the language. The ASV is often my starting point for meditation, offering a direct connection to God’s Word. The ASV was authorized by my spiritual director.

The Septuagint (Greek text with Brenton’s English translation). In my opinion, no one who claims to be Orthodox is worth their weight in salt if they don’t have and use the Septuagint (LXX). For deeper study, I turn to the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Old Testament, paired with Brenton’s English translation. The Septuagint, being one of the oldest versions of the Scriptures, brings to light nuances that are sometimes lost in later translations. I find it particularly helpful for understanding the text as the early Church Fathers did, especially in its use of certain Greek words that don’t fully translate into English. Comparing the Septuagint with other versions opens up rich layers of meaning. Other than the LXX I also use the Syriac or Aramaic Peshitta.

1928 Book of Common Prayer. The 1928 Book of Common Prayer is a constant companion for me, grounding my day in the beauty of Anglican tradition. It provides the structure for Morning and Evening Prayer, as well as the timeless Collects and Offices that help center my heart on the Lord. The prayers, rooted in the Scriptures, connect me to the historic Church and offer a rhythm of devotion that has been cherished for centuries. Its language is a comfort, drawing me into a daily dialogue with my Lord.

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary is a cherished part of my spiritual life, and the Little Office is a daily practice that I turn to for contemplation. This simple yet profound set of prayers invites me to meditate on the mysteries of Christ’s life through the eyes of His Mother. It’s a reminder of Mary’s unique role in salvation history and her constant intercession for us. The repetition of these prayers throughout the day helps focus my mind on the divine mysteries, even in the midst of solitude.

Latin Missal. The 1962 Latin Missal is essential for connecting me to the ancient liturgical tradition of the Church. Celebrating the Mass with this Missal allows me to participate in the timeless beauty and reverence of the Latin liturgy, as it has been prayed for centuries by the Western Church. The prayers and readings in Latin draw me deeper into the sacred mysteries, always creating a spirit of awe and humility. This Missal reminds me that the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is the center of Christian life, and it brings a deep sense of continuity with the Church’s rich liturgical heritage. For me, I prefer Father Lasance’s New Roman Missal.

The Great Euchologion. As an Eastern Orthodox bishop, the Great Euchologion is also a critical part of my prayer life. This extensive collection of liturgical prayers from the Eastern tradition provides rich and beautiful expressions of worship. Whether I am celebrating the Divine Liturgy or praying one of the various services, the Euchologion allows me to participate in the life of the Church in its fullness. It bridges my personal devotion with the communal worship of the Church.

The Raccolta. For my private devotions, I often turn to the Raccolta, a collection of indulgenced prayers and devotions. This treasure trove of prayers connects me with the wider Catholic tradition, offering devotions for every occasion and need. The Raccolta helps me to remember that prayer is not just for personal sanctification but for the good of the entire Church. Its rich prayers are a source of comfort and inspiration, encouraging me to continually offer my prayers in union with the saints.

1954 Roman Catholic Liturgical Calendar. Finally, the 1954 Liturgical Calendar is my guide through the Church’s year, marking the feasts, fasts, and seasons that shape the liturgical life of the hermitage. This older calendar preserves the traditional observances that have been lost in more modern revisions. For me, the liturgy is a living tradition, one that sanctifies time itself and draws me deeper into the mystery of Christ’s life and the lives of the saints.

Each of these essential tools—whether a Bible, prayer book, or liturgical text—serves to root me in the tradition of the Holy Church and keep my heart and mind focused on God. In the stillness of the hermitage, these texts guide me through the day, offering wisdom, structure, and comfort as I seek to draw closer to the Lord in prayer and contemplation. Here, in this quiet sanctuary, I’m constantly reminded that the pursuit of holiness is a lifelong journey, one that requires constant prayer, study, and reflection. These spiritual tools are my companions along the way, helping me to remain faithful to that call.

Here is a list of sites where you can obtain your own copies of the above Bibles or books.

• American Standard Version (ASV). Online text. The link will take you to the Byzantine edition which differs in some ways with the 1901 edition in that it conforms to the New Testament in the Original Greek: Byzantine Textform 2018 by Robinson and Pierpont.
• Septuagint (Greek text with Brenton’s English translation). There is a printed edition in hardcover format on Amazon.
• 1928 Book of Common Prayer available online and in print.
• The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary available for praying online or in print from Amazon. You can also find this valuable book in almost any Catholic bookshop.
• 1962 Latin Missal is available in different formats. Baronius Press and Fr. Lasance.
• The Great Euchologion is available in print from Byzantine Church Supplies out of Pennsylvania. There is also an online edition, not yet complete, from the Metropolitan Cantor Institute of the Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh.
• The Raccolta is available under a beautiful red hardcover from Amazon. If you are looking for an online edition, be advised that there are some that have been heavily edited by modernists.
• 1954 Roman Catholic Liturgical Calendar. The blog “A Catholic Life” has good information about the calendar, including the monthly commemorations. There is a useful Wikipedia article about the calendar. Traditio has a month to month pre-1951 calendar on their site. You can also access readings from Per Ipsum by updating your personal settings on the site.