We Shall See Him as He Is

Author: Saint Sophrony of Essex

Description:
“We Shall See Him as He Is” is the spiritual autobiography of Saint Sophrony, written late in life as a letter to his “brethren.” It chronicles his journey from monastic training on Mount Athos, through years of personal struggle with prayer and humility, to his later life as a spiritual father guiding others.

The book includes concrete reflections on daily monastic practices such as the Jesus Prayer, vigilance over thoughts, and cultivating love for all people… even one’s enemies. Sophrony also recounts encounters with God’s uncreated Light, the challenge of spiritual temptation, and the practical application of repentance in ordinary life. These passages make abstract ideas like grace, humility, and divine presence tangible for the reader.

This is an ideal book for newcomers and laity because it clearly shows how Orthodox spirituality works in practice, not just theory. Readers can take inspiration from Sophrony’s lived example to see how prayer, patience, and love gradually transform ordinary life into a path toward God.