A Reading Guide: Ladder of Divine Ascent by St. John Climacus

A lenten challenge | 2024

A classic work of early Christian spirituality, St. John Climacus’ Ladder of Divine Ascent offers disciplined instruction for all Christians— monastics and laity alike. In imitation of the Eastern Orthodox monastic tradition which reads St. John Climacus’ Ladder annually during the Lenten season, we have designed a reading plan for us to journey through this work together.

As you look over the schedule, you’ll notice two things: first, Sundays are omitted from the schedule, and second, readings are not scheduled on Saturdays. As every Sunday is a kind of

“mini-Easter,” they do not count as part of the forty days of Lent. We observe Sundays by lifting our Lenten restrictions and disciplines

(including reading St. John’s Ladder), resting in the good work God has done, and celebrating Eucharist together. Readings are omitted from Saturdays for a less theological and more pragmatic purpose: there are not enough chapters to correspond to the forty days. So, rather than reading on Saturday, we encourage you to take time reflecting on what you have read over the week and prayerfully examine your own heart: What instruction was most challenging for you to receive? What sins or deficiencies have been to your attention? How are you encouraged to keep a holy Lent? Where is God calling you to a deeper obedience?

In addition to participating in the daily reading, you also have the option of joining a text messaging group where you can share insights from your daily reading and receive encouragement from others. Please reach out to Kayle Graham at kaylenejgraham@gmail.com if you are interested in joining a text message group.