Thomas Keating

Date of Birth: March 7, 1923

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: October 25, 2018

Biography

Thomas Keating was a prominent American Trappist monk and a pivotal figure in the Christian contemplative movement. Born in New York City, Keating dedicated his life to religious service and the promotion of contemplative spirituality. He was a founding member and spiritual guide of the Centering Prayer movement, which seeks to revive the contemplative dimension of Christian practice. Keating first entered the Cistercian Order in 1944 and later became the abbot of St. Joseph’s Abbey in Spencer, Massachusetts. Over his lifetime, he authored numerous books on prayer and spirituality, including “Open Mind, Open Heart” and “Invitation to Love.” His teachings have influenced countless individuals seeking a deeper spiritual journey. Keating passed away on October 25, 2018, leaving behind a legacy of spiritual wisdom and compassion.

5 Interesting Facts about Thomas Keating

1. Keating served as abbot of St. Joseph’s Abbey for 20 years, from 1961 to 1981.

2. He was instrumental in developing the Centering Prayer practice, which is a method of silent prayer rooted in Christian contemplative tradition.

3. Keating co-founded Contemplative Outreach, an organization committed to the renewal of Christian contemplative practices.

4. He held a degree in philosophy and theology from Fordham University.

5. Keating’s works have been translated into numerous languages, spreading his influence globally.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Thomas Keating

1. “The language of God is silence.”

2. “Contemplative prayer is a process of interior transformation, a conversion initiated by God and leading, if we consent, to divine union.”

3. “God’s first language is silence. Everything else is a translation.”

4. “The spiritual journey does not require going anywhere because God is already with us and in us.”

5. “True repentance is to change the way you think, move from the way you think to the way God thinks.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

As a Trappist monk, Thomas Keating took vows of poverty and did not accumulate personal wealth. His highest achievement was in spiritual influence and the dissemination of contemplative practices rather than material wealth.