Anchorites are those ascetic hermits who embraced the highest degree of monastic life by retreating into the Egyptian desert and living in complete seclusion and self-mortification.
The annals of the Coptic Orthodox Church abound with anchorites, who spend their life in constant communion with Christ, immersed in prayer and meditation.
Articles:
Who are the Anchorites? - Pope Shenouda III
The Life of Saint Paul the First Hermit - Saint Jerome
Abba Mousa the Anchorite - Saint Samuel the Priest
Anba Misael the Anchorite - Anba Isaac, Abbot of Calamon Monastery
Anchorite - Wikipedia
Hermit - Wikipedia
A religious tradition born in Egypt finds a home in California desert - The Boston Globe
