Who Are We?: Henri Nouwen on Our Christian Identity

by Henri J.M. Nouwen

Society teaches us to define ourselves by the things we belongings, education, experiences. Our inner worth depends on our surroundings, and, as the Gospels say, we belong to the world. Spiritual master Henri Nouwen teaches you how to move beyond such traps and achieve a deeper sense of self. Nouwen draws upon his own experience of leaving a Harvard professorship to work with the disabled. His talks will inspire you with their combination of spiritual reflection, humor, and profound insight.You will begin by looking at your own obstacles, for as Nouwen says, Only when you are willing to recognize your darkness can you really receive the light. In the second half of this series, you will reflect upon spiritual communion and what it means to be taken, blessed, broken, and given. You will transform your brokenness into blessedness, discovering how your life is meant to be a gift to the world.By entering fully into Christ's love, you will bear the gifts of the Spirit. Let Nouwen's talks lead you back to God's arms.

Genres: Christian, Nonfiction

Audio CD

First published January 1, 2006

About the author

Henri Jozef Machiel Nouwen was a Dutch Catholic priest, theologian, psychologist, professor, and spiritual writer whose work profoundly shaped contemporary Christian spirituality. Born in Nijkerk, the Netherlands, in 1932, Nouwen pursued religious studies and was ordained a priest in 1957. His intellectual curiosity led him to study psychology at the Catholic University of Nijmegen and later at the Menninger Clinic in Kansas, where he explored the connection between faith and mental health. Throughout his life, Nouwen remained committed to integrating pastoral care, psychology, and spiritual theology in a way that addressed the emotional and existential needs of believers.
Nouwen held teaching positions at prestigious institutions including the University of Notre Dame, Yale Divinity School, and Harvard Divinity School. He authored over three dozen books and hundreds of articles, with notable works such as The Wounded Healer, The Return of the Prodigal Son, Life of the Beloved, and The Inner Voice of Love. His writing, often rooted in personal vulnerability and spiritual struggle, resonated with readers across denominations. Nouwen openly explored themes of loneliness, identity, intimacy, and the human desire for love and belonging, making his voice especially relatable and influential.
Though he was a gifted academic and popular speaker, Nouwen found his deepest calling later in life through his involvement with L’Arche, a network of communities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. After a transformative stay at the original L’Arche community in France, Nouwen accepted an invitation to become the pastor of L’Arche Daybreak in Richmond Hill, Ontario. There he developed a close bond with Adam Arnett, a core member with severe disabilities, which inspired the book Adam: God’s Beloved. At Daybreak, Nouwen discovered a deep spiritual home and a community that helped him embrace his humanity in profound ways.
Throughout his life, Nouwen wrestled with issues of identity, including his sexuality and his longing for connection, though he remained faithful to his vows. His openness about depression and inner conflict gave depth to his pastoral message, and his ability to turn personal struggle into shared spiritual insight made him one of the most beloved spiritual writers of the 20th century.
Henri Nouwen died in 1996 of a sudden heart attack, but his legacy endures through his writings, the Henri Nouwen Society, and the continued global reach of his message of belovedness, vulnerability, and compassionate community. His books remain bestsellers, widely read in seminaries, churches, and among individuals seeking a more intimate walk with God.

Reviews

[Jared Kassebaum · Rating 4 out of 5]

Listening to Henri Nouwen will always give my soul peace as I learn from a man who truly found peace within God.

[Laura Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love to read this over and over again to be reminded of God's great love for us. Nouwen puts it so eloquently and at the same time so simply. So grateful for Nouwen's work and for our great and loving Lord.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a treat to hear the author’s own voice for this insightful explanation of how much God loves us. Although he died in 1996, his words still ring true while his wisdom and faith impress those who take the time to listen. I think he was the Father Mike Schmitz of the 60s through 90s. 😄

[C.N. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Be encouraged and listen to this speech. It's great. I suppose it's really a homily.

[Jodi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I need to listen to this once a month or more. Henri Nouwen is just so insightful and his words are beautiful.

[Melody]

Chosen, Blessed, Broken, Given- to truly understand this and embrace it in life. Priceless.