M. Basil Pennington, O.C.S.O. (1931-2005), a monk at St. Joseph's Abbey in Spencer, Massachusetts was renowned for his work on centering prayer and on lectio divina, the ancient practice of praying the Scriptures. He was also recognized for his broad and dedicated religious search that led him to cross lines that divide denominations and different spiritual traditions. Indeed, he counted among his many friends rabbis from New York, Eastern Orthodox monks from Mount Athos, and Hindu spiritual masters from India. With all of them, Christians as well as those who profess other faiths, he sought to establish a frank dialogue that recognizes and respects the value of monasticism. Author of many articles and ten books, among them the best-selling Bold Prayers from the Heart, Jean Maalouf holds a doctorate in philosophy from the Paris-Sorbonne University and is a member of the American Teilhard Association.