“To say that I am made in the image of God is to say that love is the reason for my existence, for God is love. Love is my true identity. Selflessness is my true self. Love is my true character: Love is my name. ” 

Thomas Merton lived as a contemplative monk, studying, writing, and praying. He could be impatient, rambunctious, charming, deceptive, and could experience both pain and love. In other words, he was completely human. It was in the vulnerability of that messy humanity where he most felt the grace of God. How do we make that same connection and sense God’s love for us? How do earthly and spiritual love fit together? We will consider these questions through reading, journaling, and exploring images of ourselves in which we look and feel beloved, using Merton’s work as a lens of grace through which we access love for ourselves, for others, and the world.

Led by Sophfronia Scott.