Merton-Cardijn Option

"There are no passengers on spaceship earth. We are all crew." ~ Marshall McLuhan

In 1965, Louis Monden, S.J., published “Sin, Liberty, and Law.” The book discusses various themes, including the meaning of freedom and determinism, the contrast between legal ethics and situational ethics, and the mystique of evil in society. It is a Christian study that examines the modern world's confrontation with doing the greater good. In the book, Monden discusses the "Fundamental Option" as a framework of Christian theology and ethics.

"And summoning the crowd with his disciples, he said to them, "If anyone wishes to come along behind me, let him deny himself utterly and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his soul will lose it, but whoever will lose his soul for my sake and the good tidings will save it." ~ MK 8:34-35

I am proposing what I will call the “Merton-Cardijn Option,” based on Louis Monden, S.J.'s foundational work of Christian ethics.

The Merton-Cardijn Option refers to a moral proposition in which each person gradually develops a fundamental orientation toward becoming a Contemplative Activist. It represents the central, fundamental choice that shapes individual actions, seamlessly woven into a quilted understanding of the gospels.

The Merton-Cardijn Option offers a transformative approach to life, integrating spiritual depth with active engagement in the world. It emphasizes personal wholeness and social justice, inspiring hope for a better, more just society.

The dignity of human existence is found in the Sermon on the Mount, the Parables, and the lives lived by the early followers of Jesus. This option offers a shared vision of living authentically and responsibly within the framework of Christian values.

Thomas Merton's Vision

Merton championed achieving personal completeness and holiness via contemplation, self-awareness, and spiritual integration. He held that uncovering one's true identity was inherently linked to encountering God. His teachings highlighted:

Inner Transformation: Through meditation, solitude, and prayer, individuals can reorient their minds toward love and authenticity.

Wholeness: Merton described a "fully integrated person" as someone who embodies love, righteousness, wisdom, and liturgical connection—qualities rooted in human compassion and divine grace.

Living Well: He stressed that living authentically and entirely was the first contribution to humanity's collective destiny, the first actions we take in discovery change.

Being a contemplative is living in the image of God.

Joseph Cardijn's Approach

Cardijn emphasized empowering laypeople, especially workers, to reclaim their dignity and transform society through Christian action.

Cardijn's key principles included:

See-Judge-Act Method: This practical framework encourages individuals to observe their reality, evaluate it through faith, and take action to address injustices.

Dignity of Labor: Cardijn emphasized that every person is created in the image of God. That work should reflect this inherent dignity. "To work is to pray." Think of the Rule of Saint Benedict and Ora et Labora.

Social Justice: He aimed to re-Christianize daily life by addressing systems that empower workers to become agents of change.

Being an activist is living in the likeness of God.

Their Shared Vision

Merton and Cardijn shared a powerful vision of a life where spirituality was not confined to personal piety but extended into transformative action. This shared vision unites us in a more significant movement for social change.

Their teachings align in the following:

Integration of Faith and Action: Merton's call for inner wholeness and Cardijn's focus on social responsibility together advocate for a life that balances contemplation with active engagement. This balance empowers us to make a meaningful difference in the world.

Human Dignity: Both emphasized the importance of acknowledging the intrinsic value of every individual, whether through spiritual development or social justice initiatives.

Choosing a "Merton-Cardijn option" means living a life committed to personal authenticity, spiritual depth, and active participation in creating a just society rooted in the gospel values and teachings.

More to come in future weeks.