Francis Kline, Michael Downey

Francis Kline, OCSO, (1948-2006), entered the Cistercian monastery of Gethsemani in 1972. after studying music at the Juilliard School in New York, majoring in organ. Following theological studies at the Pontifical Athenaeum Saint'Anselmo in Rome, he was ordained priest at Gethsemani Abbey in 1986. Four years later he was elected abbot of Mepkin, Gethsemani's third foundation, and continued to serve as abbot until he was born into Eternal life on 27 August 2006.  Since completing his doctorate under the direction of David Power in 1982, Michael Downey has served as professor of theology and spirituality at universities and seminaries in the United States. His abiding theological commitment to those who are wounded and marginalized has brought him to serve the church most in need through lectures, conferences, and retreats in different parts of the world. From 1997-2011 he served as the Cardinal's Theologian, Archdiocese of Los Angeles. He is currently Diocesan Theologian in San Bernardino, CA.