Life Changing Writings

by Abbot Oscar Joseph, O.C.C.O., Contemplative Monk

A beautiful companion for prayer, reflection, and spiritual growth—this is a book readers will return to again and again.

About The Book

Life Changing Writings by the Abbot
Life Changing Writings by the Abbot is a rare spiritual treasure—deeply pastoral, profoundly human, and unmistakably shaped by a lifetime of prayer, scholarship, and service. Abbot Oscar Joseph writes with the clarity of a seasoned teacher, the compassion of a spiritual father, and the authenticity of one who has lived every word he offers.
This collection of reflections, teachings, and personal letters opens a window into the Abbot’s heart. His voice is gentle yet uncompromising, rooted in Scripture, the Church Fathers, and the Rule of St. Benedict. Whether he is guiding the reader through the complexities of communication, the challenges of marriage, the mystery of prayer, or the beauty of healing, his words consistently uplift, encourage, and illuminate.
What makes this volume exceptional is its accessibility. These writings are not academic treatises or abstract theological musings. They are living wisdom—practical, relatable, and immediately applicable to everyday life. Readers will find themselves pausing often, not because the text is difficult, but because it is so rich that it invites contemplation.
The Abbot’s reflections on fear, trust, spiritual maturity, and the subtle lies that distort modern faith are especially compelling. His honesty is refreshing, his humor disarming, and his spiritual insight unmistakably born from decades of ministry, counseling, and monastic discipline. The healing stories included in the final section are powerful reminders that God’s grace is not theoretical—it is active, present, and transformative.
This book is not merely read; it is experienced. It comforts, challenges, and gently reshapes the heart. Life Changing Writings by the Abbot will be cherished by anyone seeking deeper intimacy with God, greater clarity in life’s struggles, and a more joyful, grounded Christian journey.
A beautiful companion for prayer, reflection, and spiritual growth—this is a book readers will return to again and again.

Beacon of Hope

Greetings, I am Abbot Oscar Joseph. God has given me the mission to help set His people free so that they may live in the Joy of Spiritual Freedom. Indeed we are living in, with, and through God. Please think of yourself as part of the Beacon of Hope community.

Abbot Oscar Joseph’s biography Education: He holds a Master of Science in Education, doctoral degrees in Sacred Theology (Scripture) and Christian Counseling, and several honorary doctorates. Ministry: Ordained as a priest in 1993, he was consecrated as a bishop in 2002 and took his final vows as a monk in 1999. He has served thirty-five years as a Christian Counselor, and twenty-five years as the Abbot General for the Cistercian Order of the Holy Cross. Roles: He has served as a TV and radio personality, former pastor of a local conservative Anglican Church, college educator, retreat master, and seminar leader Abbot Oscar Joseph is known for his extensive background in education, having taught psychology, sociology, Old and New Testament, English, and ethics at several local community colleges He is also the Founder/President of St. Stephen Harding Theological College and Seminary. Publications He has authored numerous books. God has blessed him with a vocation of a mystic, healer, and contemplative monk.

More Books by Beacon of Hope

Listen with the Ear of Your Heart

Your Pilgrimage Toward Intimacy With God

by Abbot Oscar Joseph O.C.C.O. Contemplative Monk

Abbot Oscar Joseph places a strong emphasis on the foundational role of Scripture and the teachings of the Church Fathers. He encourages the study and meditation of the Bible, using it as a guide for personal and communal spiritual growth. The writings of early Christian theologians and leaders provide a rich resource for understanding the faith and its traditions.
Rule of St. Benedict
The Rule of St. Benedict is often referred to as Scripture’s addendum and is a cornerstone of Brother Oscar Joseph's teachings. This Rule outlines principles for living, emphasizing values such as:
Prayer: Regular and disciplined prayer is central to deepening one's relationship with God.
Work: Engaging in meaningful work as a form of prayer and service.
Community Life: Building a supportive, loving community where individuals grow together in faith.
Prayer, Meditation, and Contemplation
These spiritual practices are vital in Brother Oscar Joseph’s teachings:
Prayer: Engaging in regular, heartfelt communication with God.
Meditation, reflecting on Scripture, and spiritual writings to gain deeper insights.
Contemplation: Experiencing the presence of God in silence and stillness, allowing for a transformative connection.
Spiritual Direction
Abbot Oscar Joseph offers spiritual direction to help individuals navigate their spiritual journey. This involves one-on-one guidance to explore personal faith, address doubts and fears, and discern God's will.
Healing Ministry
A significant part of Brother Oscar Joseph's work is a healing ministry, in which he shares God’s grace through numerous miraculous healings and teaches others to minister healing to those in need. This involves prayer, laying on hands, and relying on the power of the Holy Spirit. His healing services and public presentations are done in a quite reverential style.

Getting Healed, Staying Healed

A Christian Guide to healing body, mind and spirit for those searching for healing and those guiding them.

by Abbot Oscar Joseph, O.C.C.O., Contemplative Monk and Kathleen Rivest Pd.D.. D.D.

A Christian Guide to healing body, mind and spirit for those searching for healing and those guiding them.

Memoirs of a Christian Healer

Real Life Stories, Genuine Healings

by Abbot Oscar Joseph, O.C.C.O., Contemplative Monk

Real stories about God's love for the "unwanted".

The Joy of Spiritual Freedom

No More Doubt/ No More Fear

by Abbot Oscar Joseph O.C.C.O. Contemplative Monk and Kathleen Rivest, Ph.D., DD

Three in One

Companion Workbooks for The Joy of Spiritual Freedom, Listen with the Ear of Your Heart, and Memoirs of a Christian Healer.

by Abbot Oscar Joseph, O.C.C.O., Contemplative Monk

Willl help with spiritual development

Beating Temptations

A genuine preparation that works

by Abbot Oscar Joseph, O.C.C.O., Contemplative Monk

Beating Temptations offers clear, practical guidance for overcoming spiritual struggles and growing closer to God. With pastoral wisdom and simple tools, Brother Oscar Joseph equips readers to recognize temptation, resist it with confidence, and walk in lasting spiritual freedom.

Love to Death

My First Publication 1969

by Abbot Oscar Joseph, O.C.C.O., Contemplative Monk

Does God Test Us?

The question of the centuries

by Abbot Oscar Joseph, O.C.C.O., Contemplative Monk

What sets this book apart is its pastoral heart. Abbot Oscar Joseph writes not as an academic observer but as a spiritual father who has walked with countless souls through suffering, healing, and transformation. His insights into Catholic and Anglican perspectives further enrich the work, offering an ecumenical breadth that strengthens its relevance for a wide Christian audience.

Heaven

Happiness and Fulfillment

by Abbot Oscar Joseph, O.C.C.O., Contemplative Monk

Whether read in quiet devotion or shared in fellowship, Heaven, Happiness, Fulfillment speaks to the deepest longings of the human heart and affirms that true happiness begins with the eternal.

The Lie Of Self-Esteem

There is a way to greater confidence

by Abbot Oscar Joseph, O.C.C.O., Contemplative Monk

Whether you are a seeker, a spiritual leader, or someone longing for deeper peace, The Lie of Self-Esteem will challenge your assumptions, comfort your soul, and guide you toward the confidence that only God can give

Divine Healing

A Practical Application on How God Heals Today

by Abbot Oscar Joseph, O.C.C.O., Contemplative Monk

Praying Unceasingly

Problems and Solutions

by Abbot Oscar Joseph, O.C.C.O., Contemplative Monk

THE CALL THAT CHANGES EVERYTHING

An Ordained Minister’s Discernment, Sorrows, and Joys

by

A Life of Grace and Grit

Memoir

by Abbot Oscar Joseph, O.C.C.O., Contemplative Monk

Handbook for Christian Unity

by Abbot Oscar Joseph, O.C.C.O., Contemplative Monk

A Soul's Journey Home

Discovering God's Companionship From Earth to Eternity

by Abbot Oscar Joseph, O.C.C.O., Contemplative Monk

LIVING A JOY-FILLED LIFE

IT'S EASIER THAN YOU THINK

by ABBOT OSCAR JOSEPH OCCO

A Compassionate, Powerful Plan to Move from Defeat to Victory

by Abbot Oscar Joseph, O.C.C.O., Contemplative Monk

The Ten Commandments

the way to true spiritual freedom

by Abbot Oscar Joseph OCCO Contemplative Monk

God Sets Us Free

by Abbot Oscar Joseph, O.C.C.O., Contemplative Monk