Thomas Merton

Thomas Merton was an American Trappist monk, writer, and theologian who lived from 1915 to 1968.

He entered the Abbey of Gethsemani in 1941 and was ordained as a priest in 1949.

Merton wrote over 50 books on spirituality, social justice, and pacifism, with his autobiography "The Seven Storey Mountain" becoming a bestseller.

He was a pioneer in interfaith dialogue, exploring Eastern religions and engaging with prominent Asian spiritual figures.

Merton's work in bridging religious traditions and his prolific writing career established him as a influential figure in 20th-century spirituality and comparative religion.