Jerome, a presbyter and divine, recounts the life of St. Paul, the first hermit, celebrated on Jan 15. Paul's journey to becoming a hermit is filled with trials and temptations, showcasing his unwavering faith and dedication to God. Despite facing persecution and extreme challenges, Paul finds solace in prayer, solitude, and reliance on God's provision in the desert. His encounter with Antony, another revered monk, leads to a profound friendship and spiritual connection, culminating in Paul's peaceful passing and miraculous burial by two mourning lions.

Rufinus of Aquileia, Presbyter, in De Vitis Patrum, Book III, emphasizes the importance of asceticism and spiritual discipline as demonstrated by the lives of the desert fathers. Through examples of self-denial, perseverance, and reliance on God's grace, the desert fathers teach us to resist worldly temptations, cultivate virtues, and seek eternal rest in God's kingdom. The stories of these holy fathers serve as a guide for true faith, humility, and dedication to the spiritual journey amidst trials and spiritual battles.

Heribert Rosweyde preaches about the journey of faith and discovery in the East, highlighting encounters with saints, hermits, and the monastic way of life. The sermon delves into the controversies surrounding Origen's heretical opinions and the steadfastness of Jerome in Jerusalem. It also explores the humility, obedience, and miraculous encounters of desert dwellers, including the provision of heavenly bread, taming of wild animals, and restoration of sight to blind lion cubs by an anchorite.

Heribert Rosweyde preaches on the wisdom and teachings of the early desert fathers as recorded in De Vitis Patrum Book V. The fathers emphasize the importance of living a life that pleases God by following rules such as keeping God before one's eyes, being temperate in speech and appetite, and submitting to necessity. They also stress the significance of inner stillness, solitude, and compunction in the monk's life, highlighting the need to avoid distractions, seek after quietness, and maintain a humble and contrite heart before God.

Heribert Rosweyde preaches on the importance of spiritual discernment and the consequences of our actions, as seen through the stories of various old men and their encounters with divine visions and signs. These stories highlight the need to be wise, to focus on wholesome subjects, and to be vigilant against the snares of the devil. The accounts also emphasize the power of repentance, the mercy of God, and the transformative nature of genuine confession and good deeds in the eyes of God.

Heribert Rosweyde preaches on the lives of holy fathers and wise women who grew in spiritual strength through solitude, serving as examples for those seeking the Kingdom of Heaven. The sermon highlights the struggles, virtues, and spiritual disciplines of these renowned athletes for Christ, emphasizing the importance of faith, perseverance, and selflessness in their pursuit of a heavenly life. The stories of individuals like Isodore, Doroteus, Potamiaena, Didymus the Blind, Alexandra, and The Virgin showcase the diverse paths and challenges faced in the journey of spiritual growth, urging listeners to reflect on their own commitment to God and the dangers of succumbing to worldly temptations.

Heribert Rosweyde preaches on the lives of devout men, like Jacobus of Nisibis, who embraced a solitary life in pursuit of virtue and wisdom, demonstrating through their actions the power of God's grace and the importance of living a life worthy of emulation. Jacobus, akin to a latter-day Moses, performed miracles through prayer and divine intervention, showcasing his gentleness and compassion in dealing with those who erred. His humility and dedication to serving the poor, widows, and orphans led to his appointment as bishop, where he continued his selfless acts of kindness and displayed unwavering faith in God's providence.

Heribert Rosweyde delves into the 'Spiritual Meadow' by Benedict Baker, highlighting the shift in atmosphere and theological reflections in Book Ten, focusing on the reverence towards the Blessed Virgin Mary as 'genetrix Dei'. The book emphasizes the importance of the holy Catholic Church, intercession of saints, and the struggles faced by monks and devout individuals living in cities. Through captivating stories of ordinary people and remarkable feats of faith, the book offers a unique insight into the monastic life and spiritual battles of the time.

Heribert Rosweyde preaches on the virtues of humility, self-discipline, and prayer as essential elements in the monk's journey towards God. He emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, resisting temptations, and seeking peace through forgiveness and charity. The sermon highlights the significance of controlling one's thoughts, emotions, and actions to maintain a pure heart before God. Through various anecdotes and teachings from the old men, the message conveys the path of self-denial, vigilance, and unwavering faith in God's grace and mercy.