A Day with Thomas Merton                  

Saturday, January 12 from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm

Presented by Rev. Dr. Randy Jessen

Our Day with Thomas Merton presentation will focus on the life and teachings of this remarkable Trappist monk.  We will explore the various stages of his life journey.  The group will also take a close look at Merton's key teachings and the way his theology developed thoughout his life.  Most importantly, we will explore Merton's impact on the church and the current world  with a specific spotlight on his influence on spiritual leaders of today.  Join us for this exciting retreat!

Dr. Jessen is a United Methodist Pastor who serves as the Senior Pastor of the Parker United Methodist Church in Parker, Colorado.  He has studied the life, teachings, and theology of Thomas Merton since 1983 when he made his first retreat to Merton’s home at the Abbey of Gethsemani in central Kentucky.  Since that time he has made numerous visits and retreats to Gethsemani to explore the life of Merton.  He teaches a course titled Spirituality of Leaders in the Doctor of Ministry program at Asbury Theological Seminary.  The course draws a focus on Thomas Merton, Henri Nouwen, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, E. Stanley Jones, Mother Theresa and C.S. Lewis.

 Recommended Reading: (for a head start on the conversation)

The Seven Story Mountain (Merton’s early autobiography)

Thomas Merton: An Introduction by William Shannon & Robert Toth.

Both books are available at Benet Gifts.

Retreat only: $50