The works of St. Theophan the Recluse (1815-1894), from which the statements for this book are taken, have had a profound influence today on the spiritual revival of society and are considered by members of the Church as practical aids in the matter of Christian salvation. The book “So the Lord Ordained” opens series of books “Holy Fathers on Consolation in a Moment of Sorrow.” It contains selected and most striking statements of St. Theophan about the origin, meaning and Christian endurance of the suffering experienced by people. The book also contains an akathist to the Most Holy Theotokos and consoling Orthodox prayers. The book is addressed to everyone in need of spiritual consolation.