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Teacher profile

James Finley

Christian mysticism · Christian contemplation

Clinical psychologist and former student of Thomas Merton, teaching Christian contemplative practice through the Center for Action and Contemplation.

Christian mysticismUnited States
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About the teacher

James Finley

James Finley spent time as a young monk at the Abbey of Gethsemani under the guidance of Thomas Merton before leaving monastic life to become a clinical psychologist, an unusual combination that shapes his current teaching on Christian mysticism as both a spiritual and psychological path. He now teaches as core faculty at the Center for Action and Contemplation.

He hosts the podcast Turning to the Mystics, currently in its thirteenth season, with new episodes on Thérèse of Lisieux running through mid-2026, alongside occasional interviews and CAC-affiliated retreats.

The most important things of life are often the things we can't explain to anybody, including ourselves. (from an interview with ProgressiveChristianity.org)
James Finley
Upcoming events

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Talks, day programmes and retreats currently listed in the Paths Are Many calendar.

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Talks & videos

Watch before you attend.

Short introductions and longer conversations, to hear this teacher in their own words.

Talk

Non-Dual Consciousness in Daily Life (Part One) — James Finley

Finley on bringing non-dual, contemplative awareness into ordinary daily life.

Talk

A Happy Run Downward With James Finley

A contemplative reflection drawing on Finley's training with Thomas Merton.

Path

The wider context.

Prayer & contemplation

Christian mysticism

Silence, prayer and direct experience within the mystical traditions of Christianity.

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