A Message from the Executive Director:

Summer is often a season of movement—of travel, adventure, and stepping outside our familiar routines. Henri Nouwen deeply understood the spiritual significance of these journeys. Whether we travel across countries or simply step away from our daily responsibilities, these experiences can

awaken in us a deeper sense of wonder, vulnerability, and longing. Henri wrote, “We have to trust that the risk of loving and leaving, going and returning, will bring us closer to the home we long for.”

 

But every journey, no matter how far, eventually leads us back home. Coming home is more than returning to a place—it’s returning to ourselves, to the people who ground us, and to the quiet presence of God who welcomes us with open arms. Henri often spoke of home as the space where we are truly known and loved. In our travels and in our stillness, God continually invites us to that inner home where we find belonging and peace.

 

As you move through this summer—whether you’re venturing out or savoring the familiar—we hope Henri’s words accompany and guide you. May each journey deepen your awareness of God’s presence, and may every return remind you that home is not only a destination, but a sacred place within.

 

With gratitude and hope,

Bruce Adema

Executive Director

“The farther the outward journey takes you, the deeper the inward journey must be.” (The Inner Voice of Love: A Journey Through Anguish to Freedom)

Catch up on episodes from Love, Henri & Henri’s Bookshelf to engage Henri Nouwen’s spiritual wisdom in today’s context.

In preparation for our Fall Book Clubs, we invite you to delve into this significant trilogy of Nouwen’s teaching on deepening our spiritual lives:

Spiritual Direction: Welcome Henri as your personal spiritual director!

Spiritual Formation: Move from your mind to your heart to reunite with God, each other, and your true self.

Discernment: Grow in spiritual practice to access and understand what God is trying to say.

“I appreciated hearing what others were experiencing on their faith journey. Being part of the book club, I think helped me read the book more thoughtfully and prayerfully.” – Following Jesus book club participant

At the Henri Nouwen Society, we’re committed to making Henri Nouwen’s spiritual wisdom available to all. To support this, we’re introducing a “pay what you can” model for our programs. Daily Meditations will remain freely accessible.

 

This change reflects our belief that financial circumstances should never be a barrier to spiritual growth and community. Whether you can give a little, a lot, or nothing at all—you are welcome. Your presence matters most. Thank you for helping us build an inclusive, generous community inspired by Henri Nouwen.

“How different would our life be if we could believe that every little act of faithfulness, every gesture of love, every word of forgiveness, every little bit of joy and peace will multiply and multiply as long as there are people to receive it . . . and that—even then—there will be leftovers!” (The Life of the Beloved: Spiritual Living in a Secular World)

Saturday mornings in September 6, 13, 20, 27

 

Special Guest: Robert Jonas, Ecological Contemplative, Retreat Leader, Psychotherapist, and friend of Henri Nouwen

 

Presentation followed by optional live discussion groups on zoom.

"Being with fellow seekers on the journey of union with God through Henri Nouwen is pure gift."

All 30 young leaders have been paired with amazing mentors and cohort meetings are underway. Sharing times of spiritual practice, reflecting on key themes in Nouwen’s work, and building a sense of community, this is a beautiful extension of Henri’s ministry.

 

Are you willing to sponsor a young leader? We need to cover travel and accommodation costs for these young adults to attend the 2026 conference. 

– Debbie D.

We believe God will use this young leader cohort to amplify, extend, and deepen spirituality in their generation! To sponsor a young leader, contact Wendy VanderWal Martin at: wvanderwalmartin@henrinouwen.org    

“I want to listen and learn, but I also hope to encourage others, fostering an atmosphere where we all feel empowered to carry Nouwen’s prophetic message into the future. By participating, I seek a space that will not only nurture my own growth, but also allow me to play a meaningful role in ensuring that Nouwen’s teachings continue to guide and inspire generations to come.” – Ally Ruch, 30<30 Leader

Take a deep dive into Henri Nouwen’s contribution to spirituality and other disciplines! Keynote speakers include: Fr. Ron Rolheiser, Dr. Deirdre LaNoue, Dr. Sarah Jean Barton, and Dr. Robert J. Wicks. 15 additional presentations cover a variety of topics related to Henri Nouwen and his work.

“It is astounding to realize that people around the globe are meaningfully touched by the writings of this Catholic priest from so many decades ago.”

May 14 – 16, 2026

 

Our goal is to encourage attendees in their spiritual journeys, as well as introduce new voices and insights on the immeasurable impact that Henri Nouwen had, and continues to have, on the spiritual lives of people around the world.

 

Session formats include: scholarly papers; workshops; guided meditation/prayer sessions.

 

Proposals of no more than 300 words and a short biographical statement (one to two sentences) should be submitted by August 1, 2025 by e-mail attachment to: info@henrinouwen.org