Conferences of John Cassian

Conferences of John Cassian is a theological work written by Christian monk and theologian John Cassian, also known as John the Ascetic. The Conferences summarize important conversations that Cassian had with elders from the monastery at Scetis about principles of the spiritual and ascetic life. This book addresses specific problems of spiritual theology and the ascetic life.

First Set:

I. The goal and end of the monk

II. Discernment

III. The three renunciations

IV. Desires of the flesh

V. The eight principle vices

VI. The murder of saintly people

VII. Evil spirits and the soul's changeability

VIII. The principalities

IX. Prayer (disposition, types)

X. Prayer (unceasing, method)

Second Set :

XI. Perfection

XII. Chastity

XIII. Grace and free will

XIV. Spiritual knowledge, biblical interpretation

XV. Charisms

XVI. Friendship

XVII. Oaths and promises

Third Set :

XVIII. Three types of monks

XIX. Cenobites and anchorites

XX. Penitence and reparation

XXI. Relaxing during Pentecost

XXII. Dreams and nocturnal emissions

XXIII. Sinlessness

XXIV. Mortification, renunciation