These booklets provide the basis for small-group dialogue, leading participants progressively deeper into spiritual reflection and contemplative living. Each contains an introduction with a brief biography of Thomas Merton and information on how to use the booklet. Eight weekly sessions each include an opening Psalm reading, an introduction to the session theme, readings from Merton and one other spiritual writer, and questions for contemplative dialogue. Sessions are designed to last between ninety minutes and two hours with weekly themes becoming progressively more probing. Request a free introductory DVD and download a leaders guide at avemariapress.com.
Jonathan Montaldo has served as the associate director of the Merton Institute for Contemplative Living, the director of the Thomas Merton Center, and as president of the International Thomas Merton Society. He has edited or coedited nine volumes of Merton's writing including
The Intimate Merton, Dialogues with Silence, and
A Year with Thomas Merton. He presents retreats internationally based on Merton's witness to contemplative living.
Robert G. Toth served as the executive director of the Merton Institute for Contemplative Living from 1998-2009. He currently serves the institute as director of special initiatives.