Thomas Merton (Turning to the Mystics)

“James Finley writes as compellingly as he speaks ‘in the cadences of the mystic’s voice,’ gently encouraging the reader along the way. In his inimitable storytelling style, Finley reminds us that we are not alone, gifting us with the ‘presence-ing’ of God in every breath, in all things, through the timeless wisdom of Thomas Merton.”—Christopher Pramuk, author, Sophia: The Hidden Christ of Thomas Merton  

"Who better to unwrap the luminous gift of Thomas Merton than the man who was once his ardent novice and went on to become one of the world’s foremost teachers of contemplative Christianity, my friend Jim Finley? In this poetic and personal meditation on Merton’s core teachings, Jim roots Merton’s most exalted teachings in the holy ground of our everyday lives, where they are actualized by our connection with nature, other people, suffering and stillness. I love this book." -Mirabai Starr, Author of Wild Mercy and Ordinary Mysticism

This new series, Turning to the Mystics, grows out of the much-loved podcast in which James Finley gently accompanies listeners into the wisdom of the Christian mystical tradition. Each volume offers a contemplative reading of one or two mystics, weaving their wisdom together with Finley’s reflective commentary and simple practices for prayer. These mystics become living guides, offering room to notice how grace is already moving in the reality of our own lives and revealing the ever-present intimate nearness of God.

 

In this volume, he delves into the mystical insights of Thomas Merton, the renowned Trappist monk, whom Finley first knew as his novice master at the Abbey of Gethsemani.

James Finley, a psychotherapist and renowned retreat leader and spiritual director, is part of the Core Faculty of the Center for Action and Contemplation in New Mexico. A former novice at the Trappist Abbey of Gethsemani, he is well known for his classic, Merton’s Palace of Nowhere. His other books include his recent bestseller, The Healing Path: A Memoir and an Invitation. He lives in California.