Help Us Celebrate Henri’s Legacy!
On the 30th anniversary of his death on Sept 21st, we are celebrating the fruitfulness of Henri Nouwen's life and work. Please check back here for newly added videos and opportunities to celebrate and share Henri with others. You are warmly invited to join us on September 21 when we will host a Graveside Ecumenical service of worship, reflection, and celebration of the Eucharist starts at 11:00am Eastern, both in-person and live-streamed.
30 Years of Inspiration: Voices Influenced by Henri Nouwen
Sr. Sue Mosteller
John Mark Comer
Brian McLaren
Carolyn Whitney-Brown
Fr. James Martin
Marla Stewart Konrad
30<30: A New Generation Shaped by Henri Nouwen
Reuben Jenkins
Nelani Collette
Ally Ruch
Anna Nowalk
Caleb Brown
Community Voices: Reflections on Henri Nouwen’s Impact
“Henri’s biggest influence on my life was making me understand that I am “beloved”. Just the way I am, exactly where I am in my life and my faith journey ❤️”
“I have been reminded each day by Henri of the earthy ness of God and how simply God teaches us to be his also how God wants to be close to us. Also about love.”
“Henri is one of the many “living” Christians who has helped me live a happy life and now, at aged 90 dying of cancer, a happy death. Thank God! I am so grateful to him.”
"Henri's Struggle as a Person and its Effect on his Writing" - Fr. Ron Rolheiser
presented at the Inaugural Henri Nouwen Lecture August 2025
Celebrating 30 Years: Special Presentations
“The Life of Henri Nouwen“ - Gabrielle Earnshaw & Joe Abbey-Colborne
presented at the Longing for Home Conference May 2026
Opening Video - Contemplative Prayer - Wendy VanderWal Martin
presented at the Longing for Home Conference May 2026
We invite you to respond to one simple question:
How has Henri Nouwen's life and work continued to bear fruit in your life?
If you'd like a little inspiration, you might begin with one of these simple prompts:
Henri taught me...
Because of Henri...
Thirty years later, Henri's legacy lives on because...
Your response can be either:
A short video (2 minutes or less)
A written reflection (200 words or fewer)
30th Anniversary Publications
Upcoming Events from The Henri Nouwen Society
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Listening With the Heart: The Way of Prayer
Discover the transformative practice of prayer through the wisdom of Henri Nouwen in this three-part online video series. Watch new sessions at your own pace on September 5, 12, and 19, then join us for a live Zoom gathering on Monday, September 21 at 7:00 p.m. Eastern.
Whether you are new to contemplative prayer or seeking to deepen your practice, this series offers a welcoming space for reflection, renewal, and spiritual growth.
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Spiritual Reading Group: The Return of the Prodigal Son
This October, the Henri Nouwen Society Spiritual Reading Group will gather to reflect on one of Henri’s most beloved and transformative works: The Return of the Prodigal Son. Inspired by Rembrandt’s painting of the same name, Henri invites us to enter deeply into the biblical story of forgiveness, reconciliation, and unconditional love.
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Book Club: Letters to Marc About Jesus
This November, the Henri Nouwen Society Book Club will turn to Letters to Marc About Jesus, a deeply personal and heartfelt collection of reflections in which Henri shares his insights on following Christ with honesty, courage, and love. Written as letters to his dear friend Marc, these pages offer gentle guidance on encountering Jesus in everyday life and responding to God’s call with openness and trust.