The book, compiled by the spiritual writer, Bishop Vissarion (Nechaev), is the best interpretation of the Great Penitential Canon of St. Andrew of Crete, which is read in the church on the first four days of Great Lent and at Matins of the fifth week (on the day of the standing of the Venerable Mary of Egypt). This is a time when it is especially important for believers to focus on thoughts of repentance. An explanation of the events of the Old and New Testament history will help the God-loving reader to tune into a prayerful mood. Recommended for publication by the Publishing Council of the Russian Orthodox Church IS 11-106-0500