Thomas Merton, the Trappist monk who died in 1968, is one of the most influential religious figures of modern times. Yet many readers remain unaware of his deep preoccupation with the theme of peace from his early stance as a conscientious objector to his prophetic writings on nuclear war and nonviolence. Drawing in large part on the letters Jim Forest received from Merton, this book offers spiritual encouragement and guidance for those engaged in efforts today to rid the world of war and violence.
Jim Forest, a co-founder of the Catholic Peace Fellowship, befriended Merton in the 1960s. He is the author of many books, including Living with Wisdom: A Life of Thomas Merton, All is Grace: A Biography of Dorothy Day, and Loving Our Enemies: Reflections on the Hardest Commandment. He lives in Alkmaar, the Netherlands.