ON-DEMAND WEBINAR
What Would Thomas Merton Tweet: Finding spiritual intimacy in a socially distant world
with Daniel P. Horan, OFM, PhD
While not quite a Luddite, Thomas Merton was known to be skeptical of certain technological advances that were too quickly and too uncritically embraced in the middle of the twentieth century. Merton long discussed the inherent interrelatedness that we share as part of the human family, despite apparent differences and divisions. Yet, he rightly criticized those communications media that promise instant proximity while nevertheless increasing societal divides.
Though he died long before the public advent of the Internet or social media, Merton’s spiritual wisdom and healthy incredulity about blindly embracing technology lend us insight for our digital age.
This presentation focuses on how Merton’s writings might provide us with insight in navigating our complex contemporary world, seeking authentic intimacy with God, one another, and all creation today.
Daniel P. Horan, OFM, is the Duns Scotus Chair of Spirituality at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, where he teaches systematic theology and spirituality. He is a Franciscan priest and a frequent lecturer and retreat director around the United States and abroad. Horan is a columnist for National Catholic Reporter, and the author of twelve books including The Franciscan Heart of Thomas Merton: A New Look at the Spiritual Influence on his Life, Thought, and Writing (2014). Horan has a podcast called “The Francis Effect,” a podcast about culture and politics from a Catholic perspective. He also has a YouTube channel including several videos on Thomas Merton.