Soon after he began writing poems. His poems have been published in The Texas Observer, Huehuetitlan Journal, El Placazo, National Catholic Reporter, San Antonio Express-News, Harmony magazine, LatinAmerica Press (Lima, Peru), and The Palo Alto Review. Anthologies include Poets of the Springs and Poets of the River (audiotape). Latitudes Press published his first book of poems, The Waters of Becoming, in 1989. His latest book is Flowers for Love Makers, Peace Builders and God Seekers (2008). In 2008 the Texas Society of Poets awarded him the $400 Therese Lindsey prize in their annual contest. He also won first prize in the internationally judged 4th annual Dancing with Words Poetry Contest. Keene holds graduate degrees in Religious Studies, psychology and theology.