Reading: None.
Note: The complete reading schedule and instructions on how to submit and reply to comments may be found by clicking on the Reading Schedule link in the black navigation bar, located directly below the photo on the top of this page.
A very warm welcome to each of you. We’re so glad you’ve decided to join us for the Henri Nouwen Society (HNS) book discussion. This Lent we will journey together to read and reflect on one of Henri’s ten most read books In the Name of Jesus: Reflections on Christian Leadership. For those of you who are returning, you know how incredible this experience is, and for those who are joining us for the first time you will soon discover its blessings.
Every time we gather for a book discussion a caring and spirit-filled community emerges as you share your reflections, insights, and responses to the comments of others; as moderator I’ll do my best to assist you in this creative process. This Lent we will be without the deft touch of Brynn Lawrence, our other regular moderator. She and husband Francisco are focusing their attention on their first child, baby Leo, who was born just before Christmas. Congratulations! Brynn will be rejoining us in the future.
Long-time participants may recall that we last read In the Name of Jesus for our Lent 2010 discussion. It is based on a talk that Henri gave shortly after becoming the pastor at L’Arche Daybreak, the place that became his true home. His simple, profound, and timeless message applies to each of us since we are all leaders in our own way. You will be blessed by your Lenten encounter with this book whether you are reading it for the first time or returning to savor it again.
Before we jump in, it is always helpful to provide some information on how this online discussion flows. Each Sunday, beginning on February 14th, you will discover a new “post,” indicated by the bold title, on the blog’s Home page. This post will have discussion questions based around the week’s readings. It works best if you always add any new comment to the newest post, even if you are referring to an earlier post. That way, everyone will see your comment. After you submit a comment, either Ray or William at the HNS need to “approve” it, so it may take a few hours before it actually appears on the blog page. As noted above, instructions on how to submit and reply to comments may be found by clicking on the Reading Schedule link If you have any further questions about how the blog works, please feel free to ask using the comment box or by sending an email to the address below.
After that long introduction, we would love to hear from you!
Over the next few days you are invited to introduce yourself to the group. You may choose to share:
a) Your general geographic location
b) To whom or what you dedicate your days and energy, and why
c) Whether or not you’ve participated in previous book discussions, or if you are joining us for the first time
d) Any hopes, aspirations, burdens, or special intentions that are with you this Lent
Enough from me. Now it’s your turn and we look forward to your introduction.
RAY GLENNON: Ray lives in Columbia, Maryland where actively volunteers in his parish Confirmation and adult faith formation programs and serves as a member of the pastoral council. He and his wife Dawn are also members of a Catholic charismatic community. Ray first became familiar with Henri’s work 30 years ago. He came to know and trust Henri’s written word in a special way in 2004 when he found The Return of the Prodigal Son for sale after Mass at the cathedral in Singapore at an important point in his life. Ray has joined in these discussions as a participant or moderator since 2010 and they have become an important part of his spiritual journey. If you have any questions for Ray, please contact him at [email protected] and you can follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/@RayGlennon.
This is the first time I’m participating in a book discussion, but I’ve been discovering Henri Nouwen’s books for the past few years. I’m 52 years old and serve as a shepherd to global workers with Barnabas International. Prior to this, my wife and I lived and worked in Cambodia for 13 years. We’re trying to get used to living back here in the U.S. (Indiana) even as we continue to live an itinerant life-style and are happy to have others journeying with us. I look forward to what God reveal to me this Lenten season…Shalom!
We are a couple who live in Northeast Asia, seeking to love God and love others as we love ourselves. We look forward to this Lenten journey together!
I live in Ottawa–the capitol of Canada. We are in the midst of a deep freeze. I find Lent to be a very reflective time and am looking forward to doing the study. This is the first time I have participated in an online study.
This is my first online book study. I find Lent to be a very reflective time of year and I am thankful to have the opportunity to do this study.
From John
Greetings all. Coming late to the discussion as usual but am looking forward to the reading & sharing. The commitment helps me keep on track with daily prayer so I thank you for the opportunity. Your reflections are always something I am grateful for.
I am retired, from New Hampshire, wintering in Arizona and have done Lenten & Advent readings several times. I work part time but try to spend my day focused on the aspects of my life that I should be grateful for wife, children & friends.
This is my first time participating in a Nouwen book Discussion. I live near Annapolis Maryland. I look forward to this experience and expect the community of participants will join to provide a rich and full exploration of the book.
I have been reading Henri’s books for over 30 years, but had not read this one. I’m looking forward to exploring Henri’s great wisdom and hearing the insight from such a dedicated group of faithful servants.
I serve in Catholic healthcare with the responsibility of helping leaders lead their co-workers in living our ministry. A professional hope is that this study will provide fresh insight into what Christian leadership means for individuals in today’s world. My personal desire is to dedicate this time of study to enriching my contemplative practice.
In addition to working 50+ hour weeks I travel each weekend to visit my husband of 29 years in a nursing home 94 miles away. He has been there three years now and I’m still learning how to keep all of life balanced. I look forward to being part of this community.
I have been married for 51+ years and raised four children, three of whom are now raising their own. The oldest child died ten years ago. I’ve been a caregiver for Mom, and before that helped Mom with Dad. Both have passed now. My husband needs a lot of assistance, but not overwhelming for me.
I retired shortly before Mom passed five years ago. I had been both an elementary teacher and the last 20 years or more did Religious Education, both in a Catholic High School and ending in parish work for all ages. All areas were satisfying, but especially working with adults. I have many memories of those studying to enter the Catholic Church. I was sometimes part of the team with the priests, or for some years I was alone in establishing RCIA for a new parish.
Our Parish formed a team with the two priests and two lay ministers in “Safe Environment” which certified our volunteers to recognized a abuse in those they were serving and how to report it.
Now I assist my husband, half the week care for our granddaughter after school, attend daily mass, and have entered a new phase with Art Classes in oils and now acrylics. I have begun to express my spiritual passions in colors!
Looking forward to this online as it isn’t easy for me to be away from home any more than I am at this time. God Bless you ALL!
This is my first time participating in a study on one of Henri Nouwen’s books. I am not familiar with this book but it looks intriguing and I am looking forward to delving into it. It may take me awhile to get into the process of an online study.
This is my first joining any kind of on line dialog. I have a collection Henri J.M. Nouwen. I am excited to see what blessing God has for me on this journey.
I participated in the Advent book discussion and look forward to joining in for this one. I serve on Pastoral Council and I have served on the Diocesan Liturgical Commission – Erie Diocese. Henri Nouwen is one of my favorite authors, I receive his meditations daily and they help me to grow in my spirituality. My daughter worked with L’Arche,when she was a student at Gannon University,and we grew together in Henri’s writings and quotes. May this season, in this Year of Mercy, be a blessing to all of us. Thank you, Ray for facilitating the book discussion.
I live in Redding, CT with my wife and one of my daughters. I am a “cursillista” and have a strong desire to evangelize my surrounding environments. I am also directing sales for a chemical company. I have a chemical engineering background.
Last year I participated in Henri Nouwen’s book discussion, “The Return of the Prodigal son.”
My hope and aspiration is to be able to trust God at all times including the times when I am desolated in the desert of my life. I pray that with my immersion in this discussion, I am able to serve as an example to my family and friends so that they can follow Christ.
Oh how I am looking forward to this discussion. I have learned to let go and let God have his way in my life. Henri’s books are heart filling and filled with the love of our Lord. I came about knowing about Henri’s book “The Prodigal Son”, how much that book means to me this very day. I have read it and reread, marked it and wrote in and loved it … One day I hope we can do a discussion on that. So I who love to write and read will be here with all. God bless you all, may the our Lord speak to our hearts and help us in this world to be what He wants us to be. Love
I am a librarian at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. I am grateful for Henri Nouwen’s daily devotions which I’ve been reading each morning for several years. And for his books, especially The Return of the Prodigal Son which the adult Sunday School class I lead finished studying together in January.
My heart is full this Lent as I enter into the discernment process for the priesthood in the Episcopal Church. I look forward to journeying with all of you through this, my online book discussion group.
From Kathy L
I am a 50 year old wife and mom and live in Wisconsin. I have been receiving the daily meditation for years and always enjoy the short concise thoughts of Henri and how relevant they are. This is the first time I have participated in an online book discussion of any kind so I am looking forward to being part of this community and seeing what message God has for each one of us through the Lenten season.
This is my 5th online book discussion. I get so much from seeing how God is working in the lives of his children throughout the world. It is SO encouraging to me. I live in Centennial, CO (Denver area) and all my activities are spent in supporting my husband in ministry and encouraging my children & grandchildren n their walk with Jesus. I work by day in healthcare IT and volunteer on my worship team at church, and coordinate prayer team for Hope Academy, a school for girls rescued from sexual exploitation. Just started a home business and hope to eventually “retire” with that business.
These times with Henri’s books, meditation on the Scriptures and participation in the community refuel me for the day ahead. So looking forward to this Lenten journey!
I am so excited to be able to join a book discussion for the first time especially on Henri Nouwen’s books. I have read many of them over the years and found them to be exactly what I needed at that moment. I am a Christian counselor and business owner in New Jersey. I have a few health challenges and am learning how to navigate through them. I don’t know much about Lent and its purpose. I wanted to gain a balance approach to understanding Lent so I am seeking out Henri Nouwen books. I know this discussion will aid in my spiritual growth.
From Jon Z
Well this was a nice surprise. I was searching on Henri Nouwen and this reading group came up. I first encountered his Return of the Prodigal Son more than 20 years ago and set up a study group for our choir to explore it and have loved his writings ever since. I was especially attracted to how he connected beautiful art to the message of Jesus. So as a way to focus on the Lenten season, I would like to join you for In the Name of Jesus. I am a retired Air Force officer and have been a part time teacher at a small Christian college in Portland, OR for the last dozen years. I look forward to your thoughts.
Just ordered the book
I live in the Big Apple or today it’d be the Frozen Apple. I find my “sacred space” in the morning. The wonderful book, Magnificat, helps me to focus. I like “Living Faith” booklets as well. I find the website “Sacred Space” is a good way to hear, reflect and pray the daily Gospel.My aim is to connect with the One who leads me along life-giving waters. I pray as I open the curtains, “Be a light unto my path and a lamp for my feet.” I participate in the Benedictine “Monastery of the Heart” website sponsored by the Benedictines of Erie, PA. May Divine Mercy enter into our hearts and into every little space of our lives. Thanks for this group and those who lead us.
Thanks, Liz, I, too, participate in the Benedictines of Erie, Pa. Sr. Joan Chittester – Benedictine, spoke at our Lenten Prayer Service last year. I live two hours away from Erie. May we be blessed with this discussion group during this season of Lent.
Janet
Hello! I’ve never done this before, but am an avid fad of Henri. In fact, many years ago, a small group of us in Campus ministry had the opportunity to spend a weekend with him. We rented two small cabins in a state park: one for the men and one for women. He was with us every waking hour all weekend.. It is a deeply treasure memory!
I live in Cincinnati, Ohio, am a former Sister of Charity and now an Associate, met and married a former priest, and we are on a 41 year honeymoon. Professionally, I taught in high schools for thirty + years, then got a Ph.D in Psychology and practiced as a Climical Psychologisr for 20 years. I’m recently retired and hopeful that the extra time now will afford me the opportunity to deepen my spiritual life. This seemed like a great place to start.
From Dawn
This is the first time in reading this book and participating in a Lenten book discussion. I started reading Henri’s books back in the late 90’s and have read several of his books.
He is a great spiritual guide and I look forward to discussing his book.
Greetings Everyone,
I am Pat Howai from the island republic of Trinidad & Tobago in the Caribbean. Having just completed a very noisy Carnival festival, I’m looking forward to a more reflective journey through Lent with Henri Nouwen. I spend most of my day teaching teenage girls at a Catholic Secondary school. I practice Christian meditation, and enjoy helping my husband with the gardening. This is my second book discussion and I look forward to joining you all on this Lenten journey. Blessings!
From Cel
I’ve done these seasonal studies for several years now and always receive affirmation on my journey as well as new insights and usually a challenge to growth. I found Henri in the 1980’s when I was DRE at our parish here in northern Wyoming and have most of his books. In 2005 I changed ministries and became executive director of our dog and cat shelter, retiring from that nearly two years ago. I continue to be active in my parish, teaching classes, leading our Bereavement Ministry, lectoring and being a Eucharistic Minister. I have two acres I’m turning into the Garden of Eden (hard in Wyoming!) and last fall was awarded an outstanding Audubon Habit hero Award for my efforts there. I also breed, train and compete with European working line German Shepherd Dogs and currently have a two-week-old litter plus another due March 16th. Caring for the the puppies will make this a different Lenten experience for me – not nearly as reflective as usual – and I may not post a lot, but I’ll be reading and absorbing everyone’s wisdom even if I’m not speaking. Happy Lent, everyone!!!
From Elaine
I have participated in several of these book discussions and always look forward to a kind of reunion with old Henri Nouwen blog friends and the opportunity to learn from new members of this group. Some of you have generously shared your heroic struggles to rise above some daunting life challenges with courage and faith. Others have shared their uncanny gift for seeing God in the smallest details of everyday life. Most of all, I have appreciated everyone’s effort to make this a safe space of open mindedness and support. What a refreshing change of pace from the snarkiness of so much of the outside world.
I am a teacher, mother, wife, grandmother, Eucharistic minister, Catholic youth coordinator, reader, and hiker. These book discussions always help me to put my busy life in perspective. Thanks to all.
From Joni
I am looking forward to joining in this Lenten journey. Third time for me, first two I was very active, last one I was a silent listener, but still fed by the group discussions.
After 30+ years living outside of the US, the last 10 in Germany, my husband and I are back in the States permanently, arrived about a month ago, living in VA.
Lots of adjustments in our lives but things seem to be falling into place beautifully. Looking forward to reconnecting with old friends and making new ones through this blog.
Blessings to all!
From Debra
This is the first time I am joining a discussion. Henri Nouwen’s daily readings truly speak to my heart. I am leaning into Jesus more this Lenten Season eager to experience deeper connection with Him.
From Phil Smith
Looking forward to the journey through Lent. I always start well, and sometimes finish! However, I always get a great deal from the book and comments. Thank your for the opportunity to take part. It enriches the work I do with other people.
From Heather Joy
Hello – I am so happy to have found this site and book club. This is my first time participating in an online book club. I was first introduced to Henri Nouwen’s writings when I stumbled upon one of his books and was struck by the title “The Inner Voice of Love”. Since that first book I have taken on the goal of reading and owning every one of his books. I am currently living in North Carolina and am on a journey, this Lenten season, toward freedom from fear and a new vision for seeing the past as understanding for the future. I am excited and honored to be apart!
From Donna D
This is my first on line lenten discussion.
It is my prayer that God will bless the time
I dedicate toward walking closer
to my Lord Jesus, His precious Son.
From Betty
This is my first blog book discussion and I am looking forward to participating.
Betty
From Katherine Lewis
Very grateful to spend time in this way.
I live in Vancouver, BC but am from the states and grew up in Seattle. This is my first book discussion but I’ve been getting the HNS daily emails for about a year and really enjoy the insight he brings.
I’m a full-time working mom of two girls (ages 1 and 3) and am battling ongoing health challenges. I could really use some encouragement from the Lord as I endure each day. My prayer is to feel more of Gods presence amidst the darkness of our current trials.
Just want to encourage you Karen, Praying for you and your health issues down here in North Carolina. Happy to have visited Vancouver. Might pretty up there.
Hello, I am a first time participant and a recent transplant to Texas so hello fellow “Texans.” I am a grad student pursuing an education leading to both a professional counseling and addiction counseling licenses.
Recently I have encountered a crossroads in my faith journey and have found myself struggling in both my understanding of and relationship with God; feeling adrift and missing authentic Christian community in my new place of residence. I am anticipating hearing from God in a personal and transformative manner through this discussion.
Hi, I’m from the Boston MA area. I recently moved back home from Louisville KY. I’m both a pastor (retired from parish ministry) and psychotherapist with a private practice. Henri has been a mentor of mine for close to 20 years. I’ve never met him, but his books on ministry resonated deeply regarding what servant leadership looked like. I’t’s timely to read “In the Name of Jesus.” Because for me I can often feel pulled by the world’s emphasis is so much on success, popularity and power.
I am happy to have the opportunity to participate in this discussion.
I have joined in other book discussions here, sometimes just reading along and sometimes as a fairly active commenter. Either way, I feel that sharing in others’ insights on Nouwen’ s books has given me a deeper appreciation for the wisdom contained in his written works.
I am looking forward to joining the conversation from Arkansas where most of my time is spent being Grandma – having retired some years ago from a less fulfilling job in the corporate world.
I’ve been feeling a bit at loose ends spiritually of late and am hoping to regain some spiritual discipline and stability over this Lenten season.
I am excited and grateful for another Henri Nouwen book discussion. I have not read this book, so looking forward to gleaning some more from Henri. His books have been instrumental in strengthening me and my understanding of God at pointed times of my life. I am married and have three children; two in college and one in high school.
Here I am again. This is my third book discussion. I am a religious and belong to the Franciscan Missionaries of St. Joseph. I am still in Ecuador. My main work is teaching English and Maths to whoever wants to learn in our barrio. I also run a Prayer group, coordinate an elderly women’s group and visit the sick . I have found the last two book discussions enriching. I am sure this one will be the same and I look forward to sharing and receiving insights from fellow pilgrims on this Lenten journey.
Greetings from Texas,
I am pleased to participate in this discussion for the first time and I look forward to the journey. Blessings.
I am a 75 year old man located in Raleigh, North Carolina. Helped start and plant a thriving midsized Anglican Church here some 15 years ago. I work every day in the commercial real estate field where my 45 year old son is my partner. My wife of 53 years and I have 3 children with great spouses and 10 grandchildren, all 18 of us sold out to the Lord, but we all want to do more.
My wife and I are actively involved in an inner city outreach ministry and I used Henri’s great book prepared by his family on fund-raising some years ago in that regard and was really blessed by that writing.
I participated in this book club two years ago, missed getting the book on time last year and gave up, but I have the book now and greatly look forward to this connection with you wonderful people. At our Ash Wednesday service at our church tonight I became sure I must concentrate on my own repentance these next 40 days. Thank you
I split my time between North Carolina and Maine, both lovely. Early and unexpected retirement from 24 years of teaching has opened spaces for a renewed and deepening spiritual journey, athletics (cycling being my greatest passion) and grandchildren. I read In the Name of Jesus a number of years ago in the Servant Leadership School in my community and am looking forward to revisiting it this Lent with all of you. This is my first time joining the book discussion group.
I probably have the book but didn’t look for it yet. Since I JUST buried my mom today (although prayed for a long time for this peaceful death – where I held her hand)…..I look back these past 17 years and so tired and thinking that MAYBE this year I can skip the season! God Bless all of you for a Blessed one. Might just “hang around the wall”.
Rose,
Welcome back. You have our deepest sympathies on the death of your mother. May the Lord give you and your family peace.
Ray
I understand your exhaustion during this emotionally charged time. I recall a pastor friend of mine telling me during the wake of my dad, “This is your time for people to come to you. You don’t have to rise and greet everyone.” Like you I was both physically and mentally worn out. It’s your time for us to nurture you. Sit back, read the chapters if you have the energy, read here and get refreshed.
I believe I remember your postings, Rose, your name is distinctively unusual, and that you shared about your mother then too. Thankful for your mom’s peaceful death and that you were with her, holding her hand. Prayers have been answered, many prayers for a long time and prayers are now going up that you will feel comforted and held in God’s Hand and continuing feeling His peace and reassurance in your life. Doing so much for your mom during her latter years, hang around the wall if you so decide, and do lots of self-care as you grieve and mend your emotional heart loss, our empathy is going out to you.
My name is Sharon and my husband and I live in an inner ring suburb of Detroit. I have participated in several of these book discussions. Henri Nouwen’s spirituality really impacts on me and I am very strengthened by reading the daily meditations put out by the Henri Nouwen Society. Alison’s comment is something I also share because my church and denomination are also struggling, especially for my congregation because of the changing demographics in our area. I am really seeking to learn to be as authentic as possible and steady and faithful and committed to serving here, even as a lay person, and I believe Henri Nouwen’s insights and leadership example, especially being a servant leader may help me to hang on in a very difficult and stressful time.
I’ve been reading Henri’s books for over twenty years, have hosted several reading groups in our home, but I’ve never participated in an on-line reading group. I’m open to receiving whatever gifts God gives me during this study, but I do want to pay special attention to what Henri has to say about Christian leadership. In fact, just a couple of days before I got the email notice about the reading group, I took In the Name of Jesus off my shelf and had started to reread it. Ten years ago I attended the Henri Nouwen conference in Toronto and had the privilege of spending a day at L’Arche Daybreak. I even got to meet Bill, who Henri writes about in the book we’ll be studying.
Looking forward to joining my third discussion .Aged 70 I was licensed last year as a Reader in the Church of England and work in a small village community and local schools I find Henri’s work helps me to open my heart to God and the book discussions assist me tremendously Looking forward to our journey of Lent 2016
Best Wishes and prayers Gilly
I am a “mid-lifer” living in Chicago, I graduated from law school in May, and I have just started practicing law. I spend my days advising nonprofit corporations and my nights with my husband and our daughter (the only one of three left in the nest!) I have participated in book discussions with a group of friends but have never participated in online book discussions. I am also a member of a monthly prayer group at my daughter’s Jesuit high school. This Lent, I am looking forward to spending more time praying (with the help of this book) and serving others.
I am a middle aged woman living in Toronto Canada. I am Social Worker and have spent the past 25 years in a variety of clinical and senior administrative roles health and social service agencies with a focus on seniors and people with disabilities. I am currently unemployed and I am seeking God’s direction for the next phase of my life. Being unemployed at the moment has provided me with time to become more actively involved in my church and to join this book club. I was introduced to Henri Nouwen’s writings in the early 90’s. I have received the Daily Meditation for several years and I have been blessed by many of Henri’s books, especially With Open Hands and the Return of the Prodigal Son. I am looking forward to reading, In the Name of Jesus and journey with others in the group. This is my first time in an online book club.
I am a full-time pastor, serving as an associate in a rural city just outside of Kansas City, MO. My time is dedicated to my family (wife and a 2 yr old) and my ministry. This will be my first time participating in a book discussion, although I heard about this particular one last year. One of my goals for this year has been to get back into reading, ministry books but also literature, in a more consistent rhythm, and I am looking forward to re-reading “In the Name of Jesus” with this group!
I am married with 3 children – 2 of which are already out of my nest. I still have a 16 year old at home. I am a Clinical Nurse Educator for the Rural Zone in Central Alberta, Canada. I have lost track of how many book studies I have attended. I am happy to say I am Cancer free ( I was taking treatment over the last 3-4 studies.) I was a caregiver to my parents but my Dad went to his Heavenly Home in September of 2015. My mom doesn’t need much assistance. I am trying to dedicate my time to more physical activity. I have been de-cluttering my house. I have a little lap dog that I really enjoy. HIs name is Max. I really enjoy travel. Welcome to everyone.
My mother too is suffering with cancer and now dementia. : ( Prayers and blessings to you, Marianne.
This is my first online book discussion. I just ordered my book today and will receive it tomorrow. I can’t wait to begin this journey with everyone!
I taught Religion in a small rural Catholic elementary school in Arkansas for 8 years. Unfortunately it closed last May. I was offered and accepted a position in the parish as the Religious Education Director. This is my first experience in any book discussion. I was introduced to this website through my spiritual director last year and began getting the daily email meditations which I love. I look forward to reading and discussing this book with all of you. I’ve begun reading the first assignment. I can already see this will be an interesting book discussion!
This is my first discussion group. I have read a handful of Nouwen’s books at the guidance of my spiritual director and am looking forward to taking the next step of my journey with all of you.
This is my first online discussion group. I am a 69 year old, recently retired Christian healthcare administrator. I have read many of Henri’s books and booklets and was captured by The Return of the Prodigal Son years ago.
Since the first of the year, I have taken a part-time position with a new hospice here in the Nashville, TN area. I believe this is a calling from God in the next chapter of my story – I am hopeful to learn how to love the broken and often marginalized like Henri.
I am a retired Catholic school teacher and administrator in Spokane, Washington. Presently, I am a spiritual director for the Spiritual Exercises in Everyday Life (SEEL) program. This is my first Nouwen online book club. I was attracted to this Lenten experience because this book is one that I feel has had a great influence on my personal spiritual life and ministry.
I was given “In the Name of Jesus” and introduced to Henri 3 years ago by my mentor Gloria. I live in California, attend a Calvary Chapel church and officiate a devotion and discussion group of 65 ladies all over 55 years old. I have found, interestingly, that different people in our group either accept or reject Henri’s deep perspectives. Few are neutral about him. He is a lifeline to me though. Some times I feel like I “am” Henri as I read of his struggles. And “In the Name of Jesus” is my favorite of his books! He must increase but I must decrease.
My name is Catherine and I live in New York – just outside Manhattan. I am recently retired ( love the term ‘refired’ which I read in one of your postings). I spent many years working internationally for a computer company. I am currently trying to focus my gifts in the right area. This is my first time joining a discussion group like this. In fact, I started out this Ash Wednesday morning reading a chapter of James Martin’s Jesuit Guide to Almost Anything. He had a reference to Henri Nouwen… which led me to your site and to this blog. I do not have the book yet… but look forward to the discussion.
I am excited to be part of this group. I am looking forward to a fruitful Lent with all of you and I always benefit tremendously from reading Henri’s books. I read The Return of the Prodigal last year in Lent, but did not join the group. I live in Nebraska and have been in the Charismatic Renewal since 1973. I’m always hoping to grow in my faith and to bring others to a deeper relationship with my Friend, Jesus.
God bless us all!
I am joining for the first time. I live in Iowa and have been a mental health therapist for children for the past 10 years. I am eager to learn from you all. I spend most of my time with my wife and our 3 children.
I love Jesus and want to do His will….that others may see Christ in me. I write articles and poems. My faith in Christ does not falter for He has been my Lord and Savior for many years. In Him alone I trust.. This lenten season I have committed my whole self to my Lord …..All of me for the Lord…to love, obey and commit my whole self to Him. Can I do less for He died upon the cross for me…..thus the lent season starts and I looking forward to it, and to growing in Christ. I look forward to being more Christlike, helping others. and Forgetting those thing which are behind ….I press toward the goal Philipians 3:13-14. God bless all during this season and forward…..
I am a 30 year old pastor in New Jersey. My days are dedicated to my family and church, and I feel incredibly grateful for my work. It’s my first time joining one of these book discussions.
This Lent I carry with me both deep joy from ministry and also a nagging anxiety about the “decline” of the church, which my denomination seems to always be talking about. This book couldn’t line up more with the spiritual struggle in my heart right now, and I look forward to the conversation.
This is my first time participating in an on-line book discussion, although I have participated in in-person book discussions @ my local church. I was first introduced to Henri’s books by a local priest who used pamphlets during Advent & Lent. Then I read Henri’s book on the Prodigal Son & was “hooked” on Henri for life! Looking forward to the discussions.
Grateful to be joining in on this…
Another wonderful oppurtunity for hearing God in myself & others
Blessings for us all…
I have recently moved to Canterbury in the UK after living in Sarawak for 4 years and have joined the Kent L’Arche Community as a live-in assistant. This will be my first time joining in a book discussion. I am hoping that reading the book and participating in the discussions will help me focus more on God and the direction he has for my life.
I’ve read Henri’s books for years. When I wake each morning I read his daily meditation, several of which are taped in key places throughout my home. Serendipitous events have been the most spiritual moments in my life, and this morning I was led here. This is the first time I’ve participated in a book discussion hosted on this site. Looking forward to it.
🙂 Michelle
I am officially retired but a kind gentleman with a prophetic gift told me some time ago to consider myself “refired”. That word settled well, for I cannot imagine not being engaged in the ministry of mentoring and leadership development. Now getting ready for a three-month interim pastorate commencing Holy Week. My wife and I spend most of our time in Guelph, Ontario but also consider the Southern USA our second home. We are presently enjoying a Winter vacation with our son and family in Florida. We have one other son who resides in the Lord’s presence, having left us in 2007.
I have participated in one of the Nouwen discussions and look forward to this one. Don’t have my copy of the book with me but the e-copy will be a welcome re-visit. Nouwen’s life and writings have been a staple to us since the 1980’s when we met him in Oshawa/Whitby. As I walk through Lent once again, I need to be intentional about enlarging my space for quietness so that God’s presence may control my thinking, speaking and acting in ways that will honour Him and attract my fellow-travellers to Him. In the Name of Jesus is a perfect vehicle for this journey. I look forward to the insights and inspirations of all the e-friends in this discussion. Grace and peace to all.
I am a 68-year old Christian Catholic woman. Sometime this year I will be publishing my book, How I Learned to Let God Find Me in the Good Times and the Bad: A Spiritual Memoir. For 25 years I have taught Christian women to pray contemplatively. In 1983 I was admitted into the Institute for Christian Formation facilitated by the staff of the Benedictine Education Centre in Winnipeg where I participated in the Ignatian Spiritual Exercises for everyday life for 9 months. I will soon be publishing my website, aClearPathtoGod.com which I have designed specifically to help Christian women who need, for whayever reason, to connect or re-connect to the Lord in a fresh and more ‘real’ way.
I have been an avid reader of Nouwen since I can remember and am looking forward very much to the discussion and meeting other folk! I know it will help me to focus better on my journey with God. I need that focus especially now.
looking forward to the journey
From central Illinois…..cold, light dusting of snow on the ground…..
My days are filled with family, friends, caregiving for families dealing with Alzheimer’s, caregiving for a blind man, faith-related activities centered in anabaptist faith tradition, currently serving as a board member in my faith community……I purchased Henri’s book, March 2014……2 years later, here I am, seeking to build on that initial reading, welcoming all I will learn from others……thus, my hope is to broaden, deepen, strengthen my relationships and ways of relating…..allowing for my more inate, contemplative nature to “come out of hiding”.
Thank you once again, for this opportunity to journey in the company of others during these days of Lent. Grateful for all God is doing: establishing and accomplishing……
This is my first time joining the discussion group. I am looking forward to this spiritual journey.