The Garden Within
The EnLIGHTenment Series
The Garden Within
Divine therapy … a path to unity
Presented by Fr. Matthew Flatley
August 26 @ 5:15 PM – 8:30 PM
When Thomas Keating was a young college student at Yale University, spending most of his time in the library consumed with the study of early church teachings on contemplation, all the while neglecting his academic studies, he came to understand that the Christian path is an invitation to transformation. He once exclaimed to me, “there was so much literature written about our fallen natures, and conversely, about the great triumphs of the holy saints, but I could not find much written about how the average Joe can make this journey.” Fr. Matt believes this became a life long passion within Thomas Keating, to discover that sacred path, and to share his discovery with others.
Deep within, I will plant my love, not on stone, but in your heart … I will give you a new heart, a new spirit within you, for I will be your strength. EZ 36: 26
Event Topic:
Fr. Matt believes TK’s most precious contribution to the Christian Contemplative Heritage, is his presentation of the entire spiritual journey. or path to union, ( a journey, he himself made) explained, using the language of contemporary psychology. Hence, using this paradigm, and utilizing his own immense intelligence and curiosity, while drawing on social and physical science, he is able to, and possessed the authenticity to offer this notion of prayer … as Divine Therapy. It is simply genius. He clearly lays out the path for anyone who can find their own discipline and passion within, to pursue it for themselves.
About the Presenter
Fr. Matthew Flatley
Fr. Matthew Flatley is a Roman Catholic priest serving in the Diocese of Jefferson City, MO. Prior to the religious life, he served as a professional Chef for many years, and then also lived as a Trappist Monk for 5 years, before entering the Seminary. Today he considers himself a contemplative cook. For over thirty five years, he has engaged the daily discipline of Centering Prayer. Fr. Matt holds a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies, and also a Masters of Divinity and a Masters of Arts in Systematic Theology.
Find your practice and practice it. Find your teaching and follow it. Find your community and be faithful to it.
— James Finley
I would encourage folks to read … of course, but most of all … I would encourage folks to sit on their prayer cushion. Remember, one sit is devotional and two sits are transformational.
Flow of the Evening
Evening Schedule
- 5:15 PM – 5:55PM — Light Meal
- 6:00 PM — Welcome & Logistics
- 6:05 PM — Historical Background, Guidelines & Transition to Prayer
- 6:10 – 6:30 PM — Centering Prayer Block (20 minutes exact)
- 6:35 PM — Introduce Matt Flatley
- 7:15 PM — Quietly signal Jim (5-minute notice for break)
- 7:20 – 7:30 PM — Break
- 7:30 – 8:20 PM — Second Presentation Block
- 8:20 – 8:30 PM — Questions, Responses & Closing Remarks
🥪 Early Gathering & Light Meal 30 minutes before meeting time.
Since we begin earlier than usual, we’re offering a simple shared meal of sandwiches, side dishes, and light desserts 45 minutes before the event.
You’re warmly welcome to bring something to share, but please know that it’s not necessary to bring anything—your presence is truly enough.
We hope this evening offers space for insight, stillness, and transformation.
Please feel free to bring a friend!
Location
In-Person & Zoom Options Available
Whether you join us in person or on Zoom, we look forward to sharing this evening with you. A recording will be sent to all registrants after the presentation has been edited.
Registrants will receive the zoom link prior to the event.
For those joining online, donations of any amount are gratefully received.
A recording of the session will be shared with registrants after it has been edited.
In Person: A suggested donation of $25 is appreciated. If you are able, your support helps sustain our programs, scholarships, and ongoing expenses.This is a suggestion only and not a barrier to attendance. All are welcome.
For any questions please email: enlightenment@centeringprayerstl.com
To see all of the upcoming Enlightnment Series events, click the button below:
Registration
Having trouble registering or did not receive a confirmation email? Reach out to susiebrentcostl@gmail.com.
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