The Bridges to Contemplative Living with Thomas Merton Series
gently leads participants on a journey toward spiritual transformation
and a more contemplative and peace-filled life. Each eight-session
booklet provides an introduction to Merton and contemplative living
through prayers, readings from Merton and other spiritual masters, and
questions for small group dialogue.
Using the signature dialogue process of the popular Bridges to
Contemplative Living series, this small-group resource explores great
theological themes of the Advent and Christmas season through the writings of Thomas Merton and five other renowned spiritual masters.
In this accessible introduction to the writings of Thomas Merton,
small-group participants are led on a path of spiritual growth from the
first week of Advent through Christmas. Each of the books five sessions
focuses on a distinct theme: hope, salvation, compassion, tenderness,
or incarnation. The structure of each session includes prayers, a brief
thematic introduction, probing dialogue questions, and a reading from
Merton paired with a reading from one of five other spiritual masters,
including Gerard Thomas Straub, Anne D. LeClaire, Olivier Clment,
Michael Casey, and Christopher Bamford. This contemplative approach
provides a welcoming haven during the midst of a hectic season for
existing small groups or for those looking for deeply rewarding
reflection on the meaning of Advent and Christmas.