Benedictine Father Bede Griffiths - the Catholic Mystic

In reflecting upon the life of Brother Bede Griffiths (1906-1993), we encounter a profound journey of both physical and spiritual exploration that has left an indelible mark on the spiritual quests of many, myself included. More than half a century ago, Brother Bede emerged as one of the first models illustrating spiritual resonance for those engaged in interfaith activities. His life demonstrated the possibility of being deeply rooted and flourishing in multiple traditions simultaneously, challenging the theological norms of his time.

Born as Alan Griffiths, he hailed from a middle-class English family with devout churchgoing parents. His path led him to Oxford University, where he delved into the study of Eastern religions, describing his own beliefs as a "worship of nature." This exploration resulted in a profound experience, awakening the realization "that we belong to another world."

Post-Oxford, Griffiths chose a simpler communal life, eschewing the trappings of modern civilization that left him uneasy. After a pivotal retreat, where he felt love taking possession of his soul, he was drawn to join the Roman Catholic Church. Ordained in 1940 and adopting the name Bede, he embarked on a monastic journey.

Brother Bede's initial years as a monk were marked by a certain unease, prompting a return to the study of Eastern religions. This eventually led him to join Fr. Benedict Alapatt, an Indian Benedictine, in forming a monastic community. Their monastic venture followed the Benedictine pattern and later evolved into a move to Kerala, adopting the Syrian rite. However, a strained relationship with the prior led Brother Bede to a transformative phase in Shantivanam.

Shantivanam, meaning 'forest of peace,' became the tranquil setting for Brother Bede's spiritual odyssey. It was here, amidst mango trees, Palmyra palms, and the sacred river Cavery, that he felt a deep sense of peace. Brother Bede's influence grew, attracting visitors to the ashram. Yet, he faced criticism from conservative Catholics and some Hindus who questioned his borrowings from Hinduism.

In a poignant moment of heart failure and a slight stroke in 1990, Brother Bede experienced a profound spiritual event. This encounter, marked by Christ Crucified and the Black Madonna, broke down barriers to the feminine, transforming his perspective. Despite initially deciding not to travel again after recovery, he felt a renewed calling and spent the next two years in a whirlwind of teaching, meeting the Dalai Lama, and travel.

Bede Griffiths passed away in May 1993, leaving behind a legacy of teaching that emphasized contemplative intuition and reason, as well as an evolving understanding of complementarity among religions. His insights into the unity underlying different faiths and the potential for a shared spiritual destiny have influenced my own spiritual journey and continue to inspire those who seek unity in truth amidst the diversity of world religions. Brother Bede's vision of a world religion emerging from the deep meeting of diverse faiths offers a hopeful perspective amid today's conflicts.