The Evolution of the Contemplative Christian Spiritual Journey, Fr. Thomas Keating

Thomas Keating discusses his concept of the three stages of the spiritual journey: to know the other, to become the other, and there is no other. It involves having a relationship with the source of our being, being transformed through our practices, and becoming one with the divine. Secondly, he discusses the contributions of science, the wisdom of the Dalai Lama, and how evolutionary theory impacts our view of the spiritual journey. He comments on the stages of consciousness from rational to trans rational, the need for humor, and the wonderful gift from science to revelation and mystical wisdom. Thirdly, he discusses the profound implications of the cross, with Jesus Christ as the manifestation of God the Father's deep love for each of us, and the ramifications of this for the world. He comments on the Dalai Lama's concept that all nature has the capacity for three elements: compassion, forgiveness, and collaboration. Fr. Thomas explores the concept of the cross and Christ's relationship with it, and how Christ participated in the evolutionary process. Finally, he discusses the power of Centering Prayer in making a change in the world. This talk was recorded at the Contemplative Outreach 2012 Annual Conference in Snowmass Village, Colorado titled "God is All in All," and was edited into Fr. Keating's book with that title. For all recordings from this conference, go to the playlist at    • God is All in All  . For support and resources on the spiritual journey and the Centering Prayer practice, go to http://www.contemplativeoutreach.org.