In a time when the Internet is employed to the spiritual, psychological, and physical damage of so many people through pornography, gambling, and scams; it is refreshing to find a site that is dedicated to the benefit and encouragement of all people. The mission of Christian Classics Ethereal Library is "to build up the church by making classic Christian writings available and promoting their use." Volunteers have dedicated thousands of hours to bring this public domain material to the web.

The site not only includes digitized books and sermons, but also audio files, encyclopedias, hymns, and many more items. There is enough material on this website for a person to read for a lifetime. Now is the time to get started!

Here are a few recommendations from the CCEL website:

St. Augustine

The Confessions of St. Augustine -- The most popular work of the man who more than any other shaped western civilization. The first 10 chapters constitute a spiritual autobiography and some spiritual and philosophical reflections; the last three chapters are a reflection on the creation story of Genesis 1.

John Bunyan

Pilgrim's Progress -- A spiritual allegory. Of books written in English, one of the all-time most popular.

G. K. Chesterton

Orthodoxy -- Chesterton's writing reminds me of C.S. Lewis, but a little more colorful, a little more quirky. This book is an apology for the Christian world-view.

Jonathan Edwards

Religious Affections -- "What is the nature of true religion? . . . [What are] the distinguishing notes of that virtue and holiness that is acceptable in the sight of God?" In this classic work by America's greatest theologian and philosopher, Edwards considers the nature of revival and the genuine work of the Holy Spirit. Don't read this book if you want to keep worshipping your idols.

George Fox

Autobiography of George Fox -- This is a fascinating journal of the exploits of the founder of the Society of Friends (Quakers). It is also very illuminating about the political and religious state of seventeenth century England -- for example, Fox lives through the commonwealth period, meets Cromwell, and prophesies his downfall after he treats Quakers badly.

St. Ignatius of Loyola

The Spiritual Exercises Spiritual exercises arranged into 4 weeks, by the founder of the Jesuits.

St. John of the Cross

Ascent of Mount Carmel

Dark Night of the Soul -- The writings of St. John of the Cross are unsurpassed for mystical theology. The "dark night" is a must-read for anyone seriously concerned about growing spiritually.

Thomas à Kempis

The Imitation of Christ -- This book is said to have been published in more editions than any other, apart from the Bible, with 6000 appearing by the turn of this century. This little devotional book is simply written but immensely moving. Highly recommended.

William Law

A Serious Call to a Devout and Holy Life -- This is one of two or three books that greatly influenced the young J. Wesley.

Brother Lawrence

The Practice of the Presence of God -- In this little collection of letters and reflections, Brother Lawrence encourages us to be continually in God's presence.