Considered one of the most influential spiritual writers of the 20th century, Thomas Merton was a Trappist Monk profoundly shaped by Franciscan spirituality. In his new book, Theology Department doctoral student Daniel Horan, OFM writes about the Franciscan influence in Merton’s life and writings. The Franciscan Heart of Thomas Merton: A New Look at the Spiritual Inspiration of His Life, Thought, and Writing (Ave Maria Press, 2014) has been called “a major contribution to Merton studies and [to the] understanding of the Franciscan charisma,” by a reviewer at Patheos. More on Fr. Dan and the book can be found at Ave Maria Press  and Holy Name Province of Franciscan Friars.