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Venerable John Cassian, after years in Eastern monasteries, sought guidance from a desert hermit. The hermit, ancient and wise, initially refused, testing Cassian's humility. When Cassian persisted with genuine respect, the elder shared profound spiritual insights, emphasizing the importance of inner purity and constant prayer to overcome temptations. This encounter shaped Cassian's teachings on combating the eight principal vices. O Lord, through the prayers of St. John Cassian, grant us strength against temptation. #Prayer #Saints #OrthodoxChristian #Virtue #Faith