There are three stages on the spiritual path: the purgative, the illuminative and finally the mystical, through which we are perfected. The first pertains to beginners, the second to those in the intermediate stage, and the third to the perfect. It is through these three consecutive stages that we ascend, growing in stature according to Christ and attaining ‘mature manhood, the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ’ (Ephesians 4:13).
~Nikitas Stithatos
Prayerful Life 