Cynthia Bourgeault, an Episcopal priest and modern-day mystic, shares her deep insights into contemplative spirituality. She discusses the nature of ultimate reality, merging personal and impersonal dimensions, and her journey towards non-dualism. The conversation also delves into the significance of unity consciousness across spiritual traditions and the joy found in individuality within community. Additionally, Cynthia highlights her new book on Thomas Keating and upcoming events honoring his legacy, emphasizing the transformative power of contemplative practice.
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insights INSIGHT
Defining Ultimate Reality
Ultimate reality transcends concepts and involves a shift in awareness, allowing direct perception of "is-ness".
It's not a separate reality but a suspension of the mechanism that creates separation between us and the world, including God.
insights INSIGHT
The Reciprocal Dance with God
Cynthia Bourgeault's understanding of ultimate reality evolved to encompass both the personal and impersonal aspects of God.
She emphasizes the reciprocal exchange between the finite and the infinite, highlighting God's active role in manifesting in form.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Keating's Return to Personal Prayer
Thomas Keating, even after achieving non-dual, formless mysticism, returned to personal prayers in his final days.
He demonstrated the value of both personal and impersonal approaches to God, emphasizing the importance of avoiding dogma.
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The Secret Embrace is a collection of poems and reflections by Father Thomas Keating, offering profound insights into the contemplative life. The poems explore themes of surrender, union with the divine, and the journey of spiritual transformation. Keating's unique poetic style conveys a sense of deep intimacy and connection with the divine. The book invites readers to engage with the mystical dimensions of faith and experience the transformative power of contemplative prayer. It is a testament to Keating's profound spiritual wisdom and his ability to express complex spiritual truths in simple, accessible language.
That We May Be One
That We May Be One
Thomas Keating
That We May Be One is a collection of teachings by Father Thomas Keating, a prominent figure in the modern contemplative movement. The book focuses on the concept of unity consciousness, a state of being beyond duality and separation. Keating explores this concept through the lens of Christian mysticism, drawing parallels with other spiritual traditions. The teachings emphasize the importance of letting go of ego and embracing a deeper connection with the divine. The book offers practical guidance and insights for those seeking spiritual growth and transformation.
Thomas Keating, The Making of a Modern Christian Mystic
Thomas Keating, The Making of a Modern Christian Mystic
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Cynthia Bourgeault
Cynthia Bourgeault's "Thomas Keating: The Making of a Modern Christian Mystic" offers a comprehensive look at the life and teachings of Father Thomas Keating, a pivotal figure in the modern contemplative movement. The book delves into Keating's personal journey, his development of Centering Prayer, and his significant contributions to interspiritual dialogue. Bourgeault explores Keating's unique approach to Christian mysticism, emphasizing its accessibility and relevance to contemporary spiritual seekers. The book also examines Keating's influence on various spiritual traditions and his lasting impact on the world of contemplative practice. Ultimately, it serves as a tribute to a spiritual leader who bridged divides and inspired countless individuals on their paths to inner transformation.
We’re thrilled to share this conversation with Cynthia Bourgeault, an Episcopal priest whose insights into spirituality have transformed our understanding of connecting with Ultimate Reality.
Cynthia is a modern-day mystic with a diverse background in contemplative spirituality, theology, and interspiritual dialogue. Known worldwide as a retreat leader and author, she divides her time between her home in Maine and teaching engagements around the globe, where she’s a passionate advocate for reviving Christian contemplative practices. Cynthia’s work builds bridges across spiritual traditions, and her new book, Thomas Keating: The Making of a Modern Christian Mystic, explores Keating’s life and influence on modern spirituality. Her teaching incorporates her profound respect for Thomas Keating, Teilhard de Chardin, and other visionaries of contemplative theology, offering fresh insights into Christian non-duality and inner transformation.
Opening Minds, Opening Hearts