The Feast of Thomas Merton

Today, December 10, we remember, celebrate, and give thanks for the life and resurrection of Thomas Merton. This is a new and welcome commemoration to the liturgical calendar of the Episcopal Church as set forth in Holy Women, Holy Men – Celebrating the Saints. The date of this commemoration marks the anniversary of Merton’s death. While attending an international conference on Buddhist and Christian monasticism in Bangkok, Thailand he was accidentally electrocuted on December 10, 1968.

There is much that could be said about Merton. Rather than talking or writing about Merton we may be better served to simply listen to him:

• “It is in the ordinary duties and labors of life that the Christian can and should develop his spiritual union with God. (Life and Holiness)
• If we are called to holiness of life, and if holiness is beyond our natural power too achieve (which it…