Inspirational Quotes by Thomas Berry (American Catholic Priest)

Thomas Berry (1914–2009) was an American cultural historian, theologian, and environmental thinker who shaped discussions on ecology, spirituality, and humanity’s relationship with the Earth. He called himself a “geologian,” stressing a new perspective on humanity’s place in the universe.

Born in Greensboro, North Carolina, Berry joined the Passionist religious order in 1933 and was ordained in 1942. He earned a PhD in history from The Catholic University of America, focusing on Giambattista Vico’s philosophy. His studies expanded to Asian religions, Indigenous traditions, and Earth history, forming his holistic environmental approach. He co-founded the Riverdale Center for Religious Research and was a key voice in the Earth Jurisprudence movement, promoting ecological ethics in law and governance.

Berry’s influential works include The Dream of the Earth (1988,) The Great Work: Our Way into the Future (1999,) and Evening Thoughts: Reflecting on Earth as Sacred Community (2006.) His writings promote a “New Story”—integrating scientific understanding with spiritual wisdom, urging humanity to embrace its role as Earth’s caretaker.

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