What Thomas Merton tells us about the Gospel’s logic vs. our society’s | National Catholic Reporter

Having read, written, taught, led retreats and lectured on the writing of Thomas Merton for many years, I am used to encountering a range of responses people have to the late Trappist monk and spiritual writer’s work and wisdom.

Generally speaking, those who have actually taken the time to learn about Merton — his fidelity to his Catholic faith, his openness to dialogue with other traditions, his keen social analysis and criticism, and the broad range of topics and thinkers he engaged throughout his tragically short life (1915-68) — are usually interested and inspired by his thought and writings.

Still, some of Merton’s writings can be particularly challenging and unsettling, even for those who admire him and have read his work.
— Read on www.ncronline.org/news/opinion/what-thomas-merton-tells-us-about-gospels-logic-vs-our-societys