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
