Joyful Solitude explores both the effects of the global pandemic upon people of faith and how best to respond to the challenges and crises in our lives. The Apostle Paul, a prisoner facing the threat of Roman execution, authored epistles calling the faithful to rejoice despite living amidst the direst circumstances. Combining theological research and sincere storytelling, Deacon David offers a way to experience this joy by immersing ourselves fully into the liturgical and sacramental life of the Orthodox Church.

Acknowledgements11

Prologue - Still Silence in the Sacristy15

Chapter One - Desiring Silence22

Chapter Two - Seeking Stillness34

Chapter Three - Celebrating Solitude41

Chapter Four - Essential Emptiness48

Chapter Five - Embracing Loneliness55

Chapter Six - Still Silence67

Chapter Seven - Joyful Solitude75

Epilogue - Still Silence During the Divine Liturgy84

Bibliography91

About the Author99