Richard Rohr is a globally recognized ecumenical teacher whose work is grounded in Christian mysticism, practices of contemplation and self-emptying, and compassion for the marginalized. He is a Franciscan priest of the New Mexico province and founder of the Center for Action and Contemplation in Albuquerque, where he also serves as academic dean of the Living School for Action and Contemplation. Fr. Richard is the author of many books, including the bestsellers Falling Upward, The Naked Now, and, most recently, The Universal Christ. The Center publishes Richard Rohr's Daily Meditations, free reflections emailed to hundreds of thousands of subscribers around the world.

Patrick Boland is a consultant to the Center for Action and Contemplation who works directly with Richard Rohr on a number of projects, including the study guides to The Universal Christ, CAC's Falling Upward online courses, and CAC's conference workshops. He lives near Dublin, Ireland, and is a psychotherapist and executive coach with an emphasis on team dynamics and integrated spirituality. Boland's background is in education, theology, retreat leading, and leadership consulting.