Heart of the Shepherd: Character and Life of the Priest
by Hegumen Abraam Sleman

What does it truly mean to be a priest? Not merely to perform rituals or hold an office - but to live as a living icon of Christ, a spiritual father, and a shepherd of souls?

Heart of the Shepherd is a rich and deeply spiritual exploration of the priestly calling, written for priests, seminarians, and all who seek to understand the sacred nature of ordained ministry. Drawing from Holy Scripture, the wisdom of the Church Fathers, and the beauty of the Coptic liturgical tradition, Hegumen Abraam Sleman presents a comprehensive portrait of the priest as God calls him to be.

Across fifteen chapters, the book journeys through every dimension of priestly life - from the divine origin of the sacred call, to the priest's identity as a living reflection of Christ, to the daily demands of prayer, pastoral care, preaching, and spiritual fatherhood. It explores the priest's role at the Eucharistic altar, his ministry of reconciliation, his place within the family and the Church, and his perseverance through spiritual warfare and suffering. The book culminates in a vision of the lasting spiritual fruitfulness a faithful priest leaves behind - in the souls he has formed, the communities he has built, and the future shepherds he has raised up.

Rooted in the writings of St. John Chrysostom, St. Gregory of Nazianzus, St. Basil the Great, and other pillars of the Church, Heart of the Shepherd is both theologically grounded and pastorally warm. It reminds every priest that his ministry is not his own - it is a participation in Christ's eternal priesthood, offered to the world through humility, sacrifice, and love.

Whether you are a priest seeking renewal, a seminarian preparing for ordination, or a layperson who wishes to pray more deeply for your shepherd, this book will inspire, challenge, and encourage you.

"For their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified by the truth." - John 17:19