A Hidden Wholeness: Thomas Merton and the Discovery of the True Self

Thomas Merton, the American Trappist monk, was one of the most influential figures in 20th century spirituality. His prolific writing focuses on becoming liberated from the illusory self, dominated by ego, and the discovery of the true self in God through contemplative prayer.

His passionate social engagement and interfaith work taught many to awaken to the mystery of God and to become a compassionate presence in the world. This retreat day will include input on Merton’s work and time to engage with the spiritual practices that he taught.

Led by Gemma Simmonds CJ, Sister of the Congregation of Jesus (CJ) and director of the Religious Life Institute at the Margaret Beaufort Institute of Theology, Cambridge where she teaches Theology . A former missionary in Brazil, university and prison chaplain, she has published extensively in the areas of ecclesiology, spirituality and theology of religious life.