The Desert Fathers
Ward, Benedicta / Ward, Benedicta![The Desert Fathers](https://support.digitalhusky.com/media/annotations/sorted/842/8428064/CHSBZCOP038428064.jpg)
First recorded in the fourth century, the Sayings of the first Christian monks--spiritual advice, anecdotes, parables, and reflections on life--influenced the rule of St. Benedict, set the pattern for Western monasticism, and have inspired centuries of poetry, opera, and art.