SEEK THE SILENCES with Thomas Merton. Reflections on Identity, Community and Transformative Action by Charles R. Ringma SPCK (£9.99) ISBN 0-281-05604-8
Reviewer: Trevor Miller
I approached this book with great excitement and anticipation for two reasons; the first that I am an avid fan of all things Merton and secondly I had read previous and similar books by this author (who is Professor of Mission and Evangelism at the renowned Regent College in Vancouver), on both Henri Nouwen and Jacques Ellul: both of which had proved equally challenging and enriching. This book exceeded all expectations and I cannot recommend it enough. There are 230 pages packed with teaching of rare spiritual depth that makes this an absolute goldmine of insight and wisdom. This is not another collection of quotes from Merton, rather Ringma’s own reflections on an incredible range of subjects linked to Being, Being and Transcendence, Being With, Being Against, Being For, Being and Hope all enhanced by Merton’s thinking as a ‘conversational partner’ on these subjects but powerfully applied to contemporary living through personal story and spiritual insight. The often neglected truth that mission comes out of contemplation is a primary theme as the links between identity; Community and transformative action are explored. These are outlined as the ‘interrelated themes’ of “who I am before God; who I join with in Community, and the way in which I engage the world in loving service and prophetic challenge.” A book to be prayed through, reflected on and used as a major resource for preaching and teaching but most of all for living the spiritual life.
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