Watch Thomas Keating: From the Mind to the Heart

Father Thomas Keating was a Trappist monk who became a powerful spiritual teacher and one of the most influential figures in contemplative prayer. He dedicated his life to teaching others how to go beyond the mind and into the heart, to discover a deeper connection with God. "Thomas Keating: From the Mind to the Heart" is a documentary film that explores Keating's life and teachings. The film weaves together interviews with Keating, archival footage, and stories from those who knew him best. It is a powerful tribute to a man who made a profound impact on the spiritual lives of countless people.

The film follows Keating's journey from a young boy who felt a calling to the priesthood, to his years as a monk at St. Joseph's Abbey in Spencer, Massachusetts, and his eventual emergence as a spiritual teacher. Keating's journey was not always easy; he faced challenges and obstacles along the way, but his deep faith and unyielding perseverance allowed him to overcome them.

Throughout the film, Keating discusses the importance of silence and stillness in prayer. He believed that in order to truly connect with God, one had to quiet the mind and open the heart. This was not an easy task, as our minds are often cluttered with distractions, worries, and fears. Keating's teachings on contemplative prayer gave people a powerful tool to help them move beyond these distractions and experience the presence of God.

The film also explores Keating's relationship with his mentor, Father William Meninger, and the creation of the Contemplative Outreach organization. Keating and Meninger worked together to develop a new approach to prayer that emphasized the use of a sacred word, or mantra, to quiet the mind and open the heart. This approach, known as Centering Prayer, became the cornerstone of the Contemplative Outreach movement, which continues to this day.

The film features interviews with John Osborne, one of Keating's closest friends and a fellow Trappist monk. Osborne discusses his own journey with contemplative prayer and how Keating's teachings transformed his life. He also talks about the challenges of living a monastic life and the importance of community in sustaining one's spiritual practice.

One of the most poignant moments in the film is when Keating discusses his own mortality. He acknowledges that his time on earth is limited, but he remains focused on his mission, which is to inspire and teach others. Keating's message is one of hope and love; he encourages people to embrace their spiritual journey and to seek a deeper connection with God.

"Thomas Keating: From the Mind to the Heart" is a beautiful and moving tribute to a man who dedicated his life to helping others find peace and meaning in their lives. The film offers a glimpse into the world of contemplative prayer and the transformative power of silence and stillness. It is a must-see for anyone who is interested in spirituality, meditation, or simply finding a deeper connection with themselves and the world around them.

Thomas Keating: From the Mind to the Heart is a 2019 documentary with a runtime of 29 minutes.