Turning to the Mystics with James Finley

In this podcast, the speaker discusses mystical contemplation and the concept of dying to everything less than God. They explore surrendering the ego and achieving infinite union with infinite love. The hosts also explore stillness and the practice of meditation, and recite the Lord's prayer.

In this bonus episode of Turning to The Mystics, as we enter Eastertide, Jim and Kirsten are focusing on an Easter message that will help us reflect on the truth of life and resurrection so that we might ground ourselves in that story during a time such as this with the ongoing pandemic.The transcript for this bonus episode can be found here.To learn more about James Finley, visit jamesfinley.org Turning to the Mystics is a podcast by the Center for Action and Contemplation. We'd love to hear your thoughts, comments or feedback. To do so, email us at podcasts@cac.org Have a question you’d like Jim or Kirsten to answer on a future episode? Email us: podcasts@cac.org or, send us a voicemail: cac.org/voicemail This podcast is made possible, thanks to the generosity of our donors. If you would love to support the ongoing work of the Center for Action and Contemplation and the continued work of our podcasts, you can donate at cac.org/podcastsupport Thank you!

Thomas Merton, mystic, explores the purifying process necessary for union with God. They discuss Merton's perspective on meeting God in darkness and the challenges of starting on the path of contemplation. The speakers emphasize the transformative journey of love and vulnerability, and the purgative aspect of this journey. The chapter concludes with a recitation of the Lord's prayer and a thank you to the listeners.

In this bonus episode of Turning to The Mystics, Jim and Kirsten are focusing on Holy Week and discussing what this ritual can offer us as we continue to process and navigate our way through this pandemic.The transcript for this bonus episode can be found here.To learn more about James Finley, visit jamesfinley.org Turning to the Mystics is a podcast by the Center for Action and Contemplation. We'd love to hear your thoughts, comments or feedback. To do so, email us at podcasts@cac.orgHave a question you’d like Jim or Kirsten to answer on a future episode? Email us: podcasts@cac.org or, send us a voicemail: cac.org/voicemail This podcast is made possible, thanks to the generosity of our donors. If you would love to support the ongoing work of the Center for Action and Contemplation and the continued work of our podcasts, you can donate at cac.org/podcastsupport Thank you!

In this episode, James Finley explores Thomas Merton's contemplative prayer, emphasizing the importance of wordless communion and the fleeting nature of God's presence. He encourages sustained attentiveness and engages listeners in meditation and reflection. The episode concludes with a modified Lord's prayer and plans for future listener questions.

In this special episode of Turning to the Mystics, James Finley is joined by Kirsten Oates to pause and reflect on this timely moment we are all in with the world facing the pandemic, COVID-19. James grounds his mystical teaching in light of the suffering world and offers guidance on how this contemplative grounding heightens our response to that suffering. In addition to that, they are answering listener questions submitted since the last episode.The transcript for this podcast can be found here.This is a podcast by the Center for Action and Contemplation. We'd love to hear your thoughts, comments or feedback. To do so, email us at podcasts@cac.orgThis podcast is made possible, thanks to the generosity of our donors. If you would love to support the ongoing work of the Center for Action and Contemplation and the continued work of our podcasts, you can donate at cac.org/podcastsupport Thank you!Have a question you’d like Jim or Kirsten to respond to on a future episode? Email us: podcasts@cac.org Or, send us a voicemail: cac.org/voicemail

Dive into the intriguing world of Thomas Merton's teachings, where prayer opens pathways to divine connection. Reflect on the transformative power of journaling and the delicate balance between certainty and uncertainty in spiritual growth. Explore self-discovery and acceptance amidst life's complexities, highlighting the significance of identity in our journey towards divine love. Finally, embrace the lessons of trust and surrender, drawing inspiration from profound moments of transformation.

In a deep and reflective conversation, the speakers tackle the challenges of the pandemic through the lens of Christian mysticism. They guide listeners in visualization exercises, transforming fear into love and fostering connection with the divine. The resilience of faith is highlighted amidst personal suffering and grief. They discuss the balance of navigating fear while nurturing spiritual growth, emphasizing self-care and community support. Ultimately, it's about finding solace and strength in shared vulnerabilities during these uncertain times.

Explore the profound teachings of Thomas Merton on discovering your True Self beyond ego illusions. Delve into Merton's insights on divine identity and the healing power of contemplation. Engage in meditative practices that foster connection and community, including a collective recitation of the Lord's Prayer. This thought-provoking discussion invites listeners on a transformative journey toward recognizing their identity as creations of God.

In this enlightening discussion, James Finley, an expert on Thomas Merton's mystical teachings, dives deep into the power of sincere prayer as highlighted in Merton's 'Thoughts in Solitude.' He emphasizes the importance of cultivating a genuine relationship with the divine to navigate life's uncertainties. The conversation encourages listeners to reflect on their own spiritual journeys and find guidance through introspection. Finley also shares a meditative practice to help foster communion with God that resonates beyond the individual.