The Springs of Contemplation

A transcript of the discussions between the renowned twentieth-century spiritual thinker and a group of nuns about important movements in the Church and the world.

“Here, speaking to this little group of nuns, is a great spiritual leader, compassionate and gifted, sharing his own vision with all of us, intelligently, and with love.” —Sister Mary Luke Tobin, SL, from the Introduction

In December 1967 and May 1968, Trappist monk and author Thomas Merton held two spiritual retreats at the Abbey of Gethsemani in Kentucky. The attendees were contemplative prioresses invited to join Merton in discussing the communities they serve and issues in their personal lives during an era of great societal, political, and cultural changes.

The Springs of Contemplation presents the transcripts of these thought-provoking conversations on such topics as

• Responsibility in a Community of Love
• Respect for Each Person, Diversity in Community
• Honesty in Choosing Life, Union with God
• The Feminine Mystique
• Zen: A Way of Living Life Directly
• Acting in Freedom and Obedience

“This book will appeal to religious, especially contemplative religious, as it often deals directly with questions concerning them. Especially interesting and informative are Merton's insights on the place of women and the feminine in the modern church and society. . . . The book will also appeal to all who are interested in the prophetic aspect of Merton. Here he raises his voice, not only on religious and ecclesiastical issues, but on social and political ones as well. Often in these discussions Merton is at his feisty best as he lashes out at the ridiculous in the church and society. But here, too, is compassion, charity, mercy, understanding, and joy.” —Richard Weber, Merton Seasonal