Mysticism Meets Modernity

Mysticism is not a relic of past times. It is alive and flourishing. We understand mysticism as the search for the transformative presence of God, but it has evolved in its confrontation with modernity and a society that is increasingly irreligious. Using the book, Moden Mystics, An Introduction by Bernard McGinn, we will explore mysticism's continued relevance and ongoing transformations through ten mystics of the 20th century. 

We will meet on Zoom at 7:00 pm the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month for ten sessions beginning October 10. (We will not meet on Dec. 26.)

Oct. 10: Charles de Foucauld (1858-1916): Imitating the Life of Nazareth

Oct. 24: Therese of Lisieux (1973-1916): Mystic of Loving Confidence

Nov. 14: Elizabeth of the Trinity ((1880-1906): The Praise of Glory

Nov. 28: Pierre Teilhard de Chardin (1881-1956): Pan-Christic Mystical Convergence

Dec. 12: Edith Stein (1891-1942): "May Your Will Be Done"

Jan. 16: Dag Hammarskjold (1905-1963): Mystic and Public Servant

Jan. 30: Simone Weil (1909-1943): Dialectical Mysticism

Feb. 13: Henri Le Saux (Swami Abhishiktananda) (1910-1973): Mysticism Beyond East and West

Feb. 27: Etty Hillesum (1914-1943): Witness to Universal Love

Mar. 12: Thomas Merton (1915-1968) and the Renewal of Contemplation: A Reflection

You will also be added to a doscussion forum on our website where we can share questions, topics, and resources between sessions.

Our group's exploration is intended to deepen not only our understanding but also our spirituality by engaging both the head and the heart. It is not mainly an academic course. Our group sessions will rely on Socratic questioning and freedom of inquiry to spark both learning and growth.

PLEASE NOTE: Tuition amount is flexible. The suggested donation is $65 for the ten sessions. If this is not affordable (or you wish to offer more to support others who may wish to attend but do not have the funds), you can type any amount into the price box, starting with a minimum of $12. Alternatively, by becoming a Friend of the Oratory, all online groups, including this one, are free.