Thomas Merton was one of the 20th Century’s great mystics. A monk and best-selling author, Merton struggled with deep questions about God’s existence, moral values, and the role of organized religion. His thinking moved from cloistered monastic life to issues of social justice and interreligious understanding. Those who knew him also experienced his gifts as homilist and teacher. These special recordings are part of his spoken word legacy.

Introduction by Fr. Anthony Ciorra, M.Div., Ph.D.
Fr. Anthony Ciorra, M.Div., Ph.D. is a leading expert on Catholic spirituality. He is the author of Everyday Mysticism (Crossroad 1995) and co-author of Moral Formation in the Parish (Alba House 1999). In recognition of his ministry in the Church, Pope John Paul II gave him the pontifical honor Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice in 1999. He was awarded the Caritas Centennial Award in 2000 for his work in lay ministry and the Spirit of Renew Award for his work in interreligious dialogue and ecumenism.

Fr. Ciorra has graduate degrees in psychology, spirituality, and pastoral theology, a Ph.D. in Historical Theology from Fordham University, and a Certificate in Spiritual Direction. He is assistant vice president for Mission and Catholic Identity at Sacred Heart University. Previously he was dean of the Graduate School of Religion and Religious Education at Fordham University, director of the Center for Theological and Spiritual Development at the College of St. Elizabeth, and director of the Center for Spiritual Development for the Archdiocese of New York.

His experience has included parish life, teaching, administration, retreat work, preaching, and formation ministries. He gives workshops and retreats throughout the world and is active in creating programs for inter-religious dialogue among Jews, Christians, and Muslims.