St. John Vianney Men of Faith 

On July 12, we will commence an eight-session series on “New Seeds of Contemplation,”  the seminal work on spirituality authored by the Cistercian monk Thomas Merton.

 

One of Thomas Merton’s best-loved books, New Seeds of Contemplation, seeks to awaken the  dormant inner depths of the spirit so long neglected by Western man to nurture a deeply  mystical dimension in our lives. For Merton: “Every moment and every event of every man’s life  on earth plants something in his soul. For just as the wind caries thousands of winged seeds,  so each moment brings with it germs of spiritual vitality that come to rest imperceptibly in the  minds and will of men. Most of these unnumbered seeds perish and are lost, because men are  not prepared to receive them: for such seeds as these cannot spring up anywhere except in  the soil of freedom, spontaneity and love.”

 

This timeless exploration of spirituality invites repeated readings and serves as a steadfast  companion on our individual spiritual journeys. In these eight sessions, we embark on a journey  to comprehend human spirituality as illuminated by the profound insights of mystic and monk  Thomas Merton. We anticipate that the profound insights gained during these sessions will  foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the human condition, inspiring attendees to  continue their own spiritual growth and development. 

 

New Seeds of Contemplation Endorsements: 

“The Cistercian monk Thomas Merton remains a source of spiritual inspiration and a guide for  many people—he opened new horizons for souls and for the Church.” — Pope Francis

“Thomas Merton really is someone we can look up to. I always consider myself as one of his  Buddhist brothers.” — The Dalai Lama

“He is an artist, a Zen.” — Thich Nhat Hanh

 

We are extending an invitation to the men of St. John Vianney and Mary Our Queen parishes to  join us in the Ars Room at St. John Vianney Church.  Saturday morning sessions begin with an optional communion service at 7:30am. Fellowship,  prayers, and studies begin at 8:00am and end at 9:30am The cost of program materials is  $30.00.

 

Contact Deacon Harold Sawtelle at [email protected] (402 639-0429), or Larry Smith  at [email protected] (402 981-4566) for more information.

 

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