The De Mello Center’s Mission

Contrary to what your culture and religion have taught you, nothing—absolutely nothing of the world—can make you happy. The moment you see that, you will stop moving from one job to another, one friend or lover to another, one place, one guru to another.

The De Mello Center exists to help people, as Anthony De Mello did, to realize their innate capacity to transcend stress, anxiety and depression to experience peace and happiness anytime, anywhere and under any circumstance.

Peace and happiness are the highest quality of life we can experience and are what we ultimately seek through all our striving. Yet these intrinsic qualities often elude us. In truth, peace and happiness are nearer than your own hand. The Center exists to help you bring it within easy reach.

a woman extends her arms free and happy during sunset

Board of Directors

In the foreword to one of Tony’s books, Francis Stroud, S.J. of Fordham University wrote, I will never forget the feeling of liberation; the sense he made of spirituality, of prayer, of the meaning of life; his humour; his marvellous storytelling. And it was all done in such a personal style.

Jonathan Galente, President

Currently Jonathan Galente is president of the De Mello Center’s board of trustees where he has served for more than 30 years. He is also CEO of the Anne Anastasi and John Foley Foundation.  From 1970-2006 he was a psychologist at Fordham University and along with Fr. Joseph Stroud, brought Anthony De Mello to the attention of the western spirituality and helped publish De Mello’s ground breaking book, Awareness.  Jonathan continues to be a light for awareness in our everyday life and consciousness.

Karen Starr, Trustee

Liam McLaughlin, Trustee

Marybeth Minton, Trustee

Leo Daley, SJ, Trustee

J. Desmond Towey, Emeritus

J. Francis Stroud, SJ, Emeritus

Don Goewey, Executive Director