These programs specially selected from the New Dimensions archive of programs explore, with those who knew him, the man, the mystic, and the powerful social activist who operated on behalf of the world while remaining within the walls of a Trappist monastery.
Thomas Merton, A Mystic Lover Of LifeThomas Merton was an American Catholic writer, mystic, and Trappist monk who died mysteriously in Bangkok, Thailand when he was 53 years old. The gifts he left behind from his short life were immense. He combined deep contemplation with social action. Here Fr. Matthew Fox shares his profound intersection with Merton via Creation Spirituality. Read more »
In late 1993, Michael Toms made a “pilgrimage” to the hermitage of Thomas Merton at the Gethsemani Abbey in Kentucky. This is a recording of his visit with Ron Seitz, who was a young poet when he befriended and was mentored by Merton. Here Seitz offers memories and insight from the life of the brilliant Trappist monk and spiritual teacher. Read more »
Thomas Merton: Activism Of The SpiritMontaldo, Director Emeritus of the Merton Center at Bellermine University, says that people respond to Merton’s writings because he wrote from the deepest part of his soul. He was an authentic monk in the spirit of Meister Eckhart. “Merton believed that to know yourself truly is to know God, who is intimately involved in your innermost self.” Read more »
On the 25th anniversary of Thomas Merton’s untimely death in Bangkok, Michael Toms visited Gethsemani Abbey in Kentucky, and talked with several of those who knew the remarkable Trappist monk and acclaimed writer when he lived there during the last 27 years of his life. Included is a dialogue with Merton’s secretary, Brother Patrick Hart. Read more »
