What does it mean to be whole—and how can contemplation help us get there? Join contemplative teacher and former monk James Finley as he guides us through the four stages: The Vision of Wholeness, Moments of Awakening, Deepening into Discipline, and Sharing Wholeness with Others. With wisdom shaped by his time at the Abbey of Gethsemani under the guidance of Thomas Merton, as well as his work as a psychologist, James will offer a path toward transformation—an invitation to experience the fullness of life through contemplation, healing, and compassionate presence. With his hallmark poetic style and profound presence, Jim will lead us into those sacred places where wounds become wombs.

Speaker bio: 

James Finley lived as monk for six years at the Trappist monastery of the Abbey of Gethsemani in Kentucky where he received spiritual guidance from Thomas Merton.  He has led silent weekend contemplative retreats throughout the Unites States and Canada.  He is the author of Merton’s Palace of Nowhere,  The Contemplative Heart,  Christian Meditation and most recently The healing Path: A Memoir and an Invitation.  His audio and video recordings recordings include The Path to the Palace of Nowhere,  Following the Mystics Through the Narrow Gate, The Living Wisdom of Meister Eckhart and  Jesus and Buddha.  He is a core teacher in the 

Center for Action and Contemplation founded by Father Richard Rohr where he also hosts the Turning to the Mystics podcast.  He has retired from his private practice as clinical psychologist.  He lives in Marina del Ray, Ca.