Intimacy

In his classic work Intimacy, Henry J.M. Nouwen, widely regarded as one of the most influential spiritual masters of our time, explores the pathway to a more creative and fulfilling intimacy in our relationship with God. A wise and optimistic guide to the complexities and rewards of the fully developed inner life, Intimacy stands alongside The Wounded Healer, With Open Hands, Making All Things New, and Nouwen’s other notable works, as well as the writings of C.S. Lewis, Thomas Merton, and other influential Christian scholars and thinkers.

Translations available in: German, Chinese, Portuguese

More About this Book

This is Henri Nouwen’s first book and addresses the central question of Nouwen’s life: “How can I find a creative and fulfilling intimacy in my relationship with God and my fellow human beings?” Nouwen explores the balance between intimacy and distance, the problems in trying to develop lasting and productive relationships on all levels, and the connections between intimacy and sexuality, prayer, faith, and the mental well-being of the minister. In Nouwen’s words: “It tries to deal directly… with our seldom articulated and often unrecognized desire for a real home in this world.”

Themes: Intimacy, Pastoral Theology, Pastoral Psychology, Relationships, Sexuality, Prayer, Mental Health, Depression, Love, Maturation, Inner Life

Fides, 1969

Praise for "Intimacy"

"The title may be misleading for those expecting only to read of relational intimacy. This is a challenging book, especially for someone in ministry, but one worth visiting and revisiting." -Cory

"Great insights on how to shore up a priests mental health and spiritual vitality in an often lonely ministry, both campus and chaplaincy, let alone the priesthood." -Christopher

"This was my introduction to Henri Nouwen, whose clear and humble voice I enjoyed! It had some really great insights into college Christian living and ministry." -Claire