Clay Williams is scientist, theologian, and spiritual practitioner who works at the intersection of science, technology, and contemplative practice. The field of complex adaptive systems unifies his scientific and spiritual interests, offering deep and often surprising connections between seemingly unrelated areas of inquiry. Clay has a PhD in computer science, where his research focused on the intersection of complex adaptive systems, biology, and artificial intelligence. He also has a masters degree in theology, writing a thesis that explored the implications of the theology of Paul Tillich for gay Christians. 

Clay practices Zen meditation in the Plum Village tradition. In 2007, he took refuge and received the Five Mindfulness Trainings from Thich Nhat Hanh and was given the dharma name Peaceful Action of the Heart. In 2010, he began to study and practice grateful living in the tradition of Br. David Steindl-Rast, attending five retreats with Br. David between 2010 and 2016.

In 2012, he founded Living Christ Sangha at St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church. The Sangha is a community committed to dialog and deep practice via both the Buddhist and Christian faiths using the Plum Village and Gratefulness tradiitons. Clay is an aspirant to the Order of Interbeing. He is married to poet and writer David Groff.