Fr. Martin Laird, OSA, is a respected writer, retreat leader, and professor whose teachings have become a vital source of inspiration and guidance for many drawn to the Christian contemplative path. A Roman Catholic priest and member of the Order of St. Augustine, he is widely known for his accessible yet profound exploration of the Christian mystical tradition.
Martin has been a very supportive and influential presence in the development of The School of Contemplative Life. His writings and teachings have shaped our vision, grounded our practice, and continue to guide many within our community on the contemplative path.
Martin Laird was born in the United States and is a professed member of the Augustinian order. He earned his D.Phil. from the University of Oxford and has served as a professor of early Christian and mystical theology at Villanova University in Pennsylvania.
His work is deeply rooted in both the Desert Fathers and Mothers and later mystical voices such as Julian of Norwich, The Cloud of Unknowing, John of the Cross, and Meister Eckhart.
Martin Laird is perhaps best known for his trilogy on Christian contemplative practice, which has become foundational reading for many entering the silent path:
All three books combine poetic language, theological insight, and practical wisdom, making them accessible to beginners while also enriching for experienced practitioners.
Martin Laird’s teaching centres on the practice of silence—a path of resting in the presence of God beyond words, images, and thoughts. He speaks often of awareness as the gateway to inner freedom and teaches that our thoughts are not the problem—our attachment to them is.
His insights are shaped not only by Christian mysticism but also by psychological depth and interfaith openness. He frequently draws parallels with insights from modern neuroscience and, occasionally, other contemplative traditions such as Zen, while remaining deeply grounded in Christian theology.
Through retreats, lectures, and writings, he continues to accompany many on the contemplative path. His voice is a steady and compassionate companion to all who seek silence not as escape, but as encounter.
“While we continue to see fewer and fewer people regularly attending church services, their deep, genuine longing for the depth-dimension of Christianity has only grown through the years. Sadly, most Christians have absolutely no idea that Christianity has anything to say about this, much less that it has its own vibrant contemplative tradition. This is largely due to the fact that it has never been presented to them.
The School of Contemplative Life will surely rate among the most significant responses to the spiritual longings of the people of this nation and abroad.
Through it’s debut book, ‘The Missing Peace’, it’s growing online practice community and thoughtfully designed programme of retreats, The School will directly nourish and cultivate the depth-dimension of life, offering Christians – and seekers from all traditions – an accessible pathway to the wellspring of silence, compassion and peace flowing within.
Quite simply, there is no other organisation in this country quite like this, dedicated to helping people discover their groundless Ground, the eternal Mystery ever hidden with Christ in God.”