Follow the footsteps of Thomas Merton.

This simple, Cistercian monk was one of the most humane and engaging spiritual figures of the twentieth century. He was a man of paradoxes: of words and silence; a contemplative involved in the fight for social justice and a man of solitude who, by keeping himself in the background, sought to deepen the fundamental human experience. Ultimately, he was a man with only one goal: union with God and communion with humankind.

Develop a contemplative spirit.

One of the most prolific Cistercian authors, his teachings are drawn from classic and monastic spirituality. His approach is characterized by this quotation from his seminal work, The Seven Storey Mountain: “I don’t want to speak to you as an author, or a narrator, not even as a philosopher but simply as a friend.” Above all, Thomas Merton sought to deepen the fundamental human experience through union with God. One word sums up his effort: contemplation. For him, the greatest need of today’s Christian is inner truth, nourished by the contemplative spirit.

Enjoy your time with Thomas Merton and be prepared to be surprised as you journey with one of the most engaging spiritual figures of our time.