Bonnie Thurston - ”...almost as if I had a sister”: Thomas Merton & Etta Gullick

William Shannon described Merton’s correspondence with Etta Gullick as “the most charming set of all,” yet, she is little known in the U.S. After briefly introducing Gullick, we will consider her exchange with Merton on contemplative prayer.

Bonnie Thurston resigned a Chair and Professorship in New Testament to live quietly in her home state of West Virginia. She has written a dissertation, over 50 essays, and books on Merton.