Judith Valente

Judith Valente, a distinguished American author, poet, and journalist, has masterfully woven her diverse life experiences into a tapestry of contemplative wisdom and literary excellence. With an academic foundation in English and classical languages from St. Peter's University, further enriched by an MFA in creative writing from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Valente’s career is a testament to the power of narrative in exploring the depths of human spirituality and the search for meaning. Her profound insights are shaped by her role as a lay associate of the Benedictine monastery Mount St. Scholastica in Kansas, a spiritual association that has indelibly influenced her writing. Valente’s journalistic acumen is equally noteworthy, with a career that spans prestigious positions at The Washington Post and The Wall Street Journal, and accolades including two Pulitzer Prize nominations. Among Valente's literary contributions, her 2018 publication "How to Live: What The Rule of St. Benedict Teaches Us About Happiness, Meaning, and Community" stands out as a beacon for readers seeking mindfulness in the modern age. This work, along with her memoir "Atchison Blue: A Search for Silence, a Spiritual Home and a Living Faith," reveals her deep engagement with spiritual inquiry and community life, earning critical acclaim and recognition from the Religion Newswriters Association. Collaborations with Brother Paul Quenon, notably in "How to Be: A Monk & a Journalist Reflect on Living & Dying, Purpose & Prayer, Forgiveness & Friendship" and "The Art of Pausing: Meditations for the Overworked and Overwhelmed," further underscore her commitment to exploring life's profound questions through dialogue and reflection. Valente's literary style is marked by its lyrical prose and contemplative depth, inviting readers to embark on a journey of introspection and spiritual discovery. Her poetry, celebrated in collections such as "Inventing An Alphabet," which was selected by the esteemed Mary Oliver for the national Aldrich Poetry Prize, reflects her ability to capture the nuances of human emotion and the natural world. As a leading voice in contemporary spiritual literature, Valente continues to inspire through her writings, public speaking, and retreats, offering a sanctuary for those navigating the complexities of modern existence. Her contributions extend beyond the written word, as she actively participates in ecological conservation as a member of the Grand Prairie Master Naturalists and serves on the board of the International Thomas Merton Society.