Thomas Merton (1915–1968) was an American Trappist monk, poet and writer.
His monastic life centred on prayer, work and silence at the Abbey of Our Lady of Gethsemani in Kentucky, which he entered in 1941. He wrote more than 50 books over 27 years, exploring spirituality, Christian contemplation, prayer, monastic life, peace and Zen Buddhism, alongside many poems.
In 1965, Merton was permitted to live in solitude in the woods near his abbey. Using a camera borrowed from a friend, he took photographs on contemplative walks in the countryside. Shown alongside words from his writings during this period, the images offer a glimpse of his life of prayer and his attentive way of seeing the world.
The exhibition is curated by Esther de Waal, a writer on monastic life, particularly the Benedictine tradition, and Celtic spirituality. She obtained copies of Merton’s photographs from the Thomas Merton Archive for her book A Retreat with Thomas Merton. This selection was first exhibited at the University Church of St Mary the Virgin in Oxford.
Set within the Cathedral’s medieval architecture, alongside its twentieth-century religious art and daily rhythm of sung prayer, the exhibition offers an opportunity to pause in the heart of the city. Spend time with Merton’s photographs and words, and explore how looking more closely can open up new ways of seeing.
This exhibition is free to attend, donations are welcome, taking place 10 - 13 November: Tuesday, 2.00pm - 4.00pm; Wednesday and Thursday, 10.00am - 4.00pm; and Friday, 10.00am - 1.00pm.
How to find us
The exhibition is in the Eastern Arm, which is accessed from within the Cathedral.
Located in the heart of Chichester, Chichester Cathedral stands beside the Market Cross at the centre of the city's historic pedestrianised streets. Find us at West Street, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 1PX, or use what3words:///movie.rotate.stack for precise navigation. Be sure to check upcoming closures ahead of your visit, to avoid any disappointment.
- By Car: Approach from the M27 (A27) and turn northwards at one of the bypass roundabouts following signs for the city centre. Visitors arriving by car should aim for one of the many public car parks around the City. View the current Chichester District Council parking map here.
- By Bus: Most Stagecoach services stop just outside the Cathedral, click here for routes and journeys. Stagecoach services are dog friendly, so you can bring your canine companions onboard.
- By Train: Leaving the Railway Station on foot, turn left into Southgate. Walk straight ahead into South Street and follow the road to the pedestrianised crossroads at the top. Turn left into West Street and you will see the Cathedral on your left, the entrance is signposted from here. It is about half a mile from the station to the Cathedral and will take an average of 10 minutes to walk. There are no inclines on the journey.