Feb 18th to 21st: Introductions
Feb 22nd to 28th: The Story of Two Sons and Their Father, Prologue
March 1st to 7th: Part 1 The Younger Son
March 8th to 14th: Part 2 The Elder Son
March 15th to 21st: Part 3 The Father
March 22nd to 28th: Conclusion: Becoming the Father
March 29th to April 4th: Epilogue and the group’s conclusions
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Our Lenten discussion is now underway. You can find the newest post by scrolling to the top of this page, and clicking on the “Home” tab – which you will find directly below the image.
The comments section for Reading Schedule is closed.
I have great empathy for the returning son. My young life was tumultuous due to divorce, family alcoholism and living in a variety of homes with different values. At one time, between 8 and 12, I lived with my father and his parents.
By that time my grandparents were in their seventies. They had farmed until 1914. Both of my great grandfather’s discharges hung in the entrance halway. My grandparents were by circumstance, very frugal and conservative and by my estimation “not of this time”.
My father died when I was twelve and I went to live with my mother and step father who were both alcoholics. My mother was quite severe in her alcoholic binges which lasted sometimes for two to three weeks.
During this time I felt very alone and lost. For the most part I was left on my own with no direction or guidance. I spent my time mostly acting out waiting for someone to set me straight.
I lost contact with my grandparents and my mother’s family.
In my late thirties I decided my life was a mess and I entered a re-hab center. After re-hab I was blessed to be in the company of some very special people. They helped me open myself to new states of awareness.
After this total acceptance I began to have what I truly believe are deep spiritual experiences. Most notable was one day I on a business trip and began thinking of my grandparents and my relationship with them. Suddenly, it came to me that my grandfather really loved me. I felt his love and felt a warm glow and peace that I had never felt before.
At this time I can say that this awakening experience has helped to become a more loving, caring, forgiving and especially grateful person. At this juncture we could say I was mostly the prodigal. Subsequently I found through foregiveness and gratitude what, I hope the elder son also found. In that sense I am both sons.
If asked, I could take you that same intersection in rural Indiana and describe the sky, the white billowy clouds and the sun casting shadows from the clouds. That was 46 years ago.
This is my first experience in an online discussion group. My educational background is in art and theology. I have been teaching for 15 years — mostly high school religion, though I’m state certified in art. I finished a master’s degree in theology in 2005 at St. Mary’s Seminary and University – Ecumenical Institute in Baltimore Maryland. I earned 18 credits toward my degree at The John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family. While at the JPII Institute, I was fortunate enough to attend a day long seminar on this book, Rembrandt’s painting and Henri Nouwen’s experience in the Hermitage. The speakers at this seminar were phenomenal. What I remember most was the lecture on Rembrandt’s painting given by an Art History professor. He called attention to the two hands of the “father” which are resting on the back and shoulder of the “younger son.” He pointed out that the father’s right hand is clearly a feminine hand in contrast to his left, which is thicker, gnarly, and a bit rougher. He went on to explain the forceful, yet subbtle underscoring in this painting of both the feminine and masculine attributes of God. God as our Father is at once both feminine (warm, gentle, and tender in his love for us, his allowing us to run to him like a child runs to his mother when he is hurting and in pain) and masculine (strong, powerful, protective, with an expectation that we will “step up to the plate” with courage when he calls on us to do so). I’m not trying to “gender stereo-type” here, but that part of the talk on this painting has never left me. I’m really looking forward to being part of a discussion group on this book.
Hello All,
You won’t find a place to post your comment here…. this is because we’d love you to join us on the newest post! We want everyone to see your comment.
You can find the newest post by scrolling to the top of this page, and clicking on the “Home” tab – which you will find directly below the image. The newest post is always at the top of the home page, and it is identified by a bold title.
See you there!
Thanks for facilitating this online study. My husband and I recently relocated from North Carolina to South Korea to serve with Mennonite Central Committee. We are located in a small city and have limited options for English worship, so this online community and study is an answer to prayer for spiritual nurture during this Lenten season. I have read several books by Nouwen and he remains at the top of my list of favorites for devotional reading. Looking forward to the coming weeks together.
Looking forward to the experience
As I enter my own desert for my personal desire to be closer to Him, I am looking forward to the experience of having The Return of the Prodigal Son be a dwelling place as I make my way through Lent. Peace be with you all. Tim
Nice comments. A really nice way to begin Lent. I too found this book to be a spiritual experience of coming home. My prayers are for everyone to grow closer to the Father over these forty days-God bless!!
Hello everyone from the Netherlands! I am just starting to discover the pearls of Henri Nouwen that has been hidden in the heartland of his mother country the Netherlands
I am grateful to be able to enter the depth of his inspiring teachings this Lent
A year ago, my husband of 52 years suddenly passed in a heartbeat. So after several months of trying to coming to grips with that, 4 daughters, 3 sons-in-law & 7 grandchildren all helping each other to accept what life had presented that day in March, I remembered how much Henri Nouwen’s book, With Open Hands, had moved me years ago when first reading it. Prior to this I also had been trying, half-heartedly, to work on a deeper spiritual relationship with my God. With the encouragement and help of some wonderful friends I have started this and With Open Hands again has brought beautiful meaning to me daily. Several of Nouwen’s other books are part of the daily meditation/prayer and all have been very helpful to finding a mix of joy and thankfulness in my sorrow as I make this journey. Support of family and friends have carried me through and I will be ever thankful for the sustenance they provide. I look forward to reading this book and learning from all those also reading what it brings to them, that they will share with us all.
Peace,
Susan
May the light of God’s infinite love be with you And your family always
Looking forward to this online Lenten discussion on The Return of the Prodigal Son.
Hello, Everyone.
I am a retiree living in Minnesota. I am looking forward to again reading The Return. One of my most memorable experiences with Henri’s book was an opportunity to meditate upon paintings of The Return, done by local artists and displayed at a Benedictine monastery near us. These meditations were then shared with other participants in a weekend retreat.
Hello Everyone,
Good to be joining you from the beautiful cathedral city of Wells, Somerset, England.
I`m looking to rereading The Return, each time I do there`s something new to ponder.
Blessings
Jennifer
One of 2 books under study now with 2 groups. Nice to be retired!
I am from Rock Hill, SC and work with a small company. I have read this book several times and gifted it several times. I am looking forward to a discussion with many others and am anxious to witness the impact it has. It certainly impacted me.
Thank you for this opportunity to which I am very much looking forward .Last year’s Lenten experience with this blog and the readings enriched me so much. Best wishes to all of us !
My name is not on the list but this is my first time to blog on the study. I love Henri Nouwen’s book The Prodigal. I have read it several times and I have marked it and reread. It is a book for everyone and I too am excited to read what all will write, their thoughts and experiences. I know that this book is for everyone and Henri is one of my favorite authors and have read many of his books. Thank you all as you blog for I will surely learn more.
i am Busi from Bulawayo. i read the book last year and it made me realise that i always consider myself the prodigal son never did i think of situations that call on me to be the father. i am joinig for the first time and look forward to the discussions. iam from Bulawayo
Looking forward to reading this one!
I am Keith, an avid Nouwen lover living in a small Australian coastal town about 300 mile or 370km north from Sydney. I have devoured this book many a time and find it to be ‘significant’ every time I read or even think about it. I think you could apply any of life’s questions to this parable and find some level of understanding or insight to the question from it’s very few words. My days are filled with family work and life with every day having the goal of being fruitful! As for homecoming – I do not really have a clue where I am but, with the risk of sounding arrogant, I do know I have been embraced and kissed.
I was prompted by a friend to share in this reflection for Lent and thought what a really wonderful thing to do, to share this lenten communion with you all – a sort of contemplative pilgrimage. Looking forward to it.
God Bless
Keith
I would like to join this group. I was given a copy of The Return of the Prodigal Son by my sister who encouraged me to read it last summer. I found a kindred spirit with Henri Nouwen and the deepness of his words and experiences opened a door for me, way down deep in my heart. I have gathered 3 dear friends with me and will begin reading and discussing this book starting next week. I am amazed at the timing of this Lenten study. It will enrich my little group and draw us all closer to our Creator & Saviour.
I am an older lady with grown children and little grandchildren and a very forgiving husband of 37 years. I love Jesus and want to know Him much more deeply than ever before. This will be just awesome!!
Hi everyone, I’m from Jacksonville, Florida. Just recently relocated from Queens, NY. Read the book several years ago and it had such an impact on me for I have such a close relationship with my father. I am looking forward to this book study. Blessings.
Hi Everyone!
The book discussion has officially started, so please come on over to our newest post and introduce yourself there. You can find the newest post by scrolling to the top of this page, and clicking on the “Home” tab – which you will find directly below the image.
See you there,
Brynn
Hello everyone! I am so looking forward to this book discussion for the primary reason of helping me focus on the purpose of Lent, the richness of this part of the liturgical year and the fruitful exchange from each other on their perspectives and their spiritual richness.
I live in the Dallas Ft Worth area; however, I am originally from Chicago. I work part-time outside the home for a large physician group and then volunteer at my parish as the parish secretary one day a week and do other roles wherever needed. Currently, I am on the Parish Pastoral Council and also do the scheduling for the altar ministry for lectors, extraordinary ministers, altar servers, ushers, sick and homebound and greeters.
Additionally, I am in the process of selling my home and looking for another place to live – yes, need lots of spiritual “safety” and prayers.
Grace and peace –
Looking forward to reading the book and joining in on the reflective meditations to follow
Hi Everyone,
Just finished reading all the comments. What a great variety of people to walk this Lenten journey with all of you.
I am retired from full time church ministry in the Atlanta area.
As many of you have shared, I too have a great love of Henri and have read most of his books. I have grown much through these encounters. One of my favorite books is “Adam”. What a profound story of how he shared so much with Adam and grew in his own knowledge of himself and God!
I am really looking forward to sharing with all of you.
Let us pray for each other .
Blessings,
Eva
A favorite book. Sorry to say, somewhat dusty. Look forward to reading it again.
Looking forward to this experience. I read this before before on my own, and like other Nouwen writings, it was formative, even transformative. Since then I have fallen and failed. In this Lenten season, I continue on a journey of home coming. I look forward to your guiding.
A life long Christian, now retired, I was given this book to read last summer by my Spiritual Director. I can honestly say I have never been so affected by any book. It has changed my life! I am really excited to be reading it again, this time in the company of many others. I pray that all of us may be drawn into an even closer relationship with God through the reading of its pages.
I am new to online book discussions but not new to Henri Nouwen. I have read several of his books and find myself rereading them often depending on what’s going on in my life. I have read, studied, and the taught The Prodigal Son but it is always new to me. I look forward to being a part of this journey.
I join from Calgary, AB Canada. I encountered the book several years ago and have read it several times. Henri’s reflection on this story has brought the story to life in a way I hadn’t read it before and the story continues to take shape in my own spiritual journey. Looking forward to this Lenten journey.
As others have referenced, this, too, is my first experience with blogging (please bear with me…), and I am looking forward to hearing others’ viewpoints and stories as we read, share, and question together.
By way of introduction, I am a retired high school teacher who now finds purpose in volunteering at a cancer hospital where I primarily work with families in the surgical waiting room and in volunteering at my church. Additionally, I am blessed to be able to do some traveling and to have the time to read, read, read — a passion of mine.
And yet, with all those blessings, I still find myself struggling at times with building a meaningful, new life and maintaining my faith when I feel overwhelmed by what life can hurl at us. It was during one of those “punches to gut” times that I first “found” Henri Nouwen and his book, “Turn My Mourning into Dancing: Finding Hope in Hard Times.” I was struggling with the circumstances of my mother’s passing and found his words resonating not merely with my mind but, more importantly, with my broken heart and wounded soul. I still remember his words: “For in our suffering, not apart from it, Jesus enters our sadness, takes us by the hand, pulls us gently up to stand, and invites us to dance…because at the center of our grief, we find the grace of God.” Such comfort and hope, such deep thinking conveyed in beautiful, almost lyrical writing. I was hooked, for Nouwen’s writing was not only lovely and profound but written in a way that invited me in, invited me to be part of a “conversation.” Instead of talking to me, I felt as though Nouwen were talking with me as he makes himself vulnerable by sharing his pain, his fear, his hope, his own story. To this, I could truly relate.
So, from that first book, I was “hooked” on this man’s incredible capacity to delve into the mysteries of life and God in a way that leaves me hungering for more. And now, here I am, trying to learn to blog and eagerly anticipating our discussion of “The Return of the Prodigal Son.”
I have not blogged before, but I suppose it is quite self-explanatory. I intended to read The Return of the Prodigal Son anyway, so this offer will make it more interesting and fruitful, I’m sure. Thank you for the opportunity.
Just finished reading The Prodigal Son as a recommendation from my spiritual director. I am looking forward to being with this group as I have been a “seeker” for many years.
I just purchased the book and am eager to explore this Lenten path. I am an anesthesiologist near Olympic National Park, wife, and mother. This book was our former pastor’s favorite.
I join you all from Burke, Va. Have read the book several times and gave it as gifts to prayer partners and family. [ I hope I can now find my copy] The book and Henri Nouwen have been a strong part of my spiritual journey over the last 25 years—and I find myself “re-cycling” some of my readings and journal writings on my current journey. Lent is a good time to do that.
Looking forward to sharing with others during this Lent 2015.
Looking forward to walking this journey, with an open spirit towards celebrating Easter.
Hello everyone I look forward to sharing your wisdom and grace over the next 40 days.
Henri is my spiritual hero, his journey and insight as to God’s incarnation in his life led me to peace in my vocation. It all started with Wounded Healer.
Yours in Christ
Ron
Currently, and into the foreseeable future, I am/will be heavily involved with an academic project. I look forward to adding daily involvement with the Nouwen Lenten study to my life–for balance and for ballast.
I am joining the group from Flossmoor, Illinois USA, a suburb of Chicago. I had the privilege of hearing Henri Nouwen speak at Pathways Foundation’s conference on Inclusion In Worship in 1996. Henri mentions our event in his book “Sabbatical Journey.” Since then I have worked for Pathways carrying on the legacy of Henri’s keynote address at that conference. I work with congregations seeking to be more accessible and welcoming to worshippers of all abilities. A highlight of my work was presenting Henri’s keynote address “The Vulnerable Journey” at a workshop at the Henri Nouwen Symposium commemorating the 10th Anniversary of Henri’s death held in Toronto. It was wonderful to meet Henri Nouwen devotees from around the world at the symposium. I look forward to revisiting “The Return of the Prodigal Son” and hope I can keep up with the wonderful work of our facilitators and this online group. I have a 31 year old son, Gabriel, who is much like Adam. My husband and I care for Gabriel in our home and enjoy Gabe’s presence in our lives and also his three older siblings and their spouses and our four grandchildren.
I have always wanted to read this book. I have for some reason always put it off. Perhaps this is the time for me to hear Our Lord speak to me through the words of this book. I look forward to the discussions through this Lenten Journey.
Hi, this is my 1st participation.
I am located in TN, retired and do some volunteer works at church and communities. Yes, I bought a book and read it. May learn the path to homecoming through participants’ comments. I am looking forward to this Lent’s book reading. Kikuko
Henri Nouwen is a Spiritual giant for me. There is a copy of Rembrant’s picture of ‘The Return of The Prodigal Son’ on Holy Island, UK in The Celtic Christian community of Aidan and Hilda; so Henri’s book has a special place for me. I work with senior business executives exploring the expression of their spirituality in the workplace, so I will be recommending that they follow this Lent schedule.
Many blessings and thank you so much for providing this space for all of us to journey together, David.
Live in Canada… Read Return of the Prodigal Son before…. Love Nouwen’s books…. Been away from it all for a long time….. not sure I can come back home.
This is a ‘go to’ book for me and one I suggest to others for Lenten reading. It is a first online discussion for me that I have been looking forward too.
I’ve read the book. I am reading it again. I look forward to this experience.
Thank you for putting this magnificent book in my hands once again.
Looking forward to the journey through Lent together.
Henri Nouwen has been a long time favorite for his uncommon wisdom and insights and I enjoy the daily meditations so much. He would be so pleased to see community like this online sharing and ministering to each other. I look forward to this journey with all of you.
Once again I am so very grateful to be connected to this on line community.
I trust the Holy Spirit will open my heart to that which I am ready to hear as we journey together with the guidance provided.
Pace e Bene to all,
Nancy
I’m joining – thanks so much for the opportunity. This is a wonderful book to focus on for Lent~
I’ve wanted to read this book for a while. Thanks for the opportunity to read and discuss it in a group.
I have the book too! And a large framed painting that I heard Henri describe on one of the videos. I am really looking forward to this discussion. Thanks so very much!
Looking forward to this reflection of one of my favorite books.
What a blessing to do read and discuss this book with others online! Thank you for organizing it.
I am fortunate enough to have repeatedly have a blessed Lenten season. I think finding this book club might have been the blessing this year! Can’t wait to start!
Robin
I am looking forward to this series. I have thoroughly enjoyed his daily meditations.
Welcome Catherine – glad to hear you are enjoying Henri’s daily meditations and that you will be joining us this Lent.
Blessings,
Maureen
Nouwen Legacy Manager
The opportunity to participate in the Nouwen’s book for Lent is a great blessing for me. I am retired and recently recovering from surgery. Some years ago, I heard Nouwen speak at st. Francis by the Sea in Bluffton…a large image of the Prodigal Son provided the background the Nouwen’s reflections…which is etched in heart’s memory. At any rate thank you for this opportunity. It will be my focus for Lent. Gratefully, Kathleen
So glad you will be with us Kathleen!
Blessings,
Maureen
Nouwen Legacy Manager
Looking forward to joining in…
So happy to join the book discussion again.
Welcome back Judy! Glad you will be with us this Lent.
Blessings,
Maureen
Nouwen Legacy Manager
After so enjoying the advent reflections 2014 I am looking forward to joining you all from across the pond in England
Welcome back Gilly! Glad you will be with us.
Blessings,
Maureen
Nouwen Legacy Manager
Looking forward to joining this discussion……
Hello Peg, Patricia, Lata, Ann and Cherry! Welcome friends old and new! So glad you will be with us this Lent.
Blessings,
Maureen
Nouwen Legacy Manager
This book, “Return of The Prodigal Son” is my favorite book…not just “Christian” orientated, but favorite of all books. It is time I read this book again. Will enjoy seeing posts when Lent starts.
Welcome Linda and Pam! Happy to know you will be part of our community this Lent!
Blessings,
Maureen
Nouwen Legacy Manager
I love this book! Look forward to the shared perspectives.
Thrilled to be able to be part of this group. I have read this book b4 and I am eXcited to read it again and see everyone else’s insights and thoughts….as well as share my own.
Looking forward to this Lent being a time of learning & spiritual growth ~!!
Wonderful Twyla! Glad you will be with us!
Blessings,
Maureen
Nouwen Legacy Manager
I look forward to the Study. I have been using the book in our Sunday School class and am looking forward to the insights from this group.
Hi Tom,
Glad to know you will be joining us this Lent!
Blessings,
Maureen
Nouwen Legacy Manager
Really looking forward to this. I have had this book for many years and it has always given me hope in dark places. A wonderful way to spend Lent!
Glad you will be joining us Paul!
Blessings,
Maureen
Nouwen Legacy Manager
I am looking forward, as well, to the discussions concerning this book. I bought a copy some years ago, read it and thought about Henri’s insights, experiences and challenges long after the book was finished. I look forward to rereading it and listening to everyone’s comments.
Welcome Karl! We are looking forward to the discussion.
Blessings,
Maureen
Nouwen Legacy Manager
My favorite read. When I finished the book I started reading it again. Looking forward to the Lenten discussions.
Glad to see that you will be joining us Patricia!
Blessings,
Maureen
Nouwen Legacy Manager
Henri Nouwen touched my soul many years ago. I wanted to tell him he put in the written word what I felt, but so often struggled to express. He spoke heart to heart. A gift I treasure. He is my “go-to” when I’m feeling unsettled.
What a beautiful comment Sally! Welcome to our community!
Blessings,
Maureen
Nouwen Legacy Manager
i look forward to these discussions.
Welcome Harry! Glad you will be joining us this Lent.
Blessings,
Maureen
Nouwen Legacy Manager
I would like to learn more…..be more informed about Lenten series.
Hello Trudie,
Thank you for your post and your interest in the Lenten online book discussion. Beyond what has been posted on the homepage of the blog, what information are you seeking?
Look forward to hearing from you.
Blessings,
Maureen
Nouwen Legacy Manager
This story is one of my favorite stories, and not in the least thanks to the book written by Henri Nouwen. I look forward to join the reading community in February, which will be my first time.
So glad you will be joining us Janna!
Blessings,
Maureen
Nouwen Legacy Manager
I have the book and I’m excited. I am unfamiliar with “blog”…HELP
Welcome Myra to our online book discussion! What you are doing now is all you need to know how to do to participate. Just return to the blog on February 18th to ‘meet’ our facilitators, Brynn and Ray. They will guide you throughout your Lenten journey.
Blessings,
Maureen
Nouwen Legacy Manager
Maureen, like Myra, I am unfamiliar with the blog but want to participate and I have the book. Looking forward to this very much!!!!
Looking forward to this experience.
Welcome Jackie! Glad you can join us!
Blessings,
Maureen
Nouwen Legacy Manager