People were not created merely to live here on earth like animals that disappear after their death, but to live with God and in God, and to live not for a hundred or a thousand years, but to live eternally.

So begins this direct and heart-warming introduction to the Christian life that was first composed for the Aleut people of Alaska in the early nineteenth century. This book offers a classic Christian response to questions that we all must address at some point in our life: Why are we here and where can we truly find happiness and prosperity? In a time when the futility of the never-ending pursuit of material gain is being recognised more widely this work is more relevant then ever.

Since its first publication in Aleut in 1833 this book has been published in numerous Russian language editions and seven English language printings. This new English language edition is further enhanced with points for reflection at the end of each section that can be used as an aid for further engagement with the text either individually or in a guided group study setting.

The Priest John Veniaminov was a Russian born and raised in Siberia. He went on to become Bishop of a massive trans continental diocese and ultimately the Metropolitan of Moscow, the most senior Bishop of the Russian Orthodox Church. He is most widely known today by the simple title of St Innocent of Alaska.