Dear Friends,
Rarely does a week go by that we don't receive a phone call or note from someone who is grateful for how Henri's work has touched their life in a deep and meaningful way. With each note of gratitude, I am reminded of how appreciative we are for the partnership we have with you and so many others who have supported our work over the years. For this we are deeply thankful. When the Henri Nouwen Society was first established a few years after Henri's death, the primary purpose of the organization was to ensure that Henri Nouwen's books would continue to be published and distributed. While his books remain a powerful source of wisdom and spiritual encouragement, we are now building upon his writings to create new programs and outreaches that respond to a variety of crucial needs. Here are just a few of the valuable endeavors that your financial gifts have made, and continue to make, possible:
- The Loneliness Project: Henri Nouwen writes so poignantly about understanding the pain of loneliness because of his own struggles with feeling isolated and alone, despite his many friends and busy schedule. In a 2017 survey of 48,000 university students, 64% reported being "very lonely" in the previous twelve months. Using Henri Nouwen's writings as a resource, we are currently developing an outreach to those on campus who have difficulty connecting with others. What a comfort and an encouragement this will be to young adults struggling to understand who they are and where they fit in this world!
- The Wisdom Project: We are all aware of the concerning reports about the growing levels of anxiety among grade school children, the unfortunate persistence of bullying, and the impact of social media on their health and well-being. In response, we have developed an innovative video series called the Wisdom Project, designed to imbue children with a sense of identity and purpose while equipping them with the tools for sound decision-making and positive actions. This summer we recorded the initial installments of the series and will begin rolling out Phase 1 of the project over the next year.
- Courage for Caregivers: In all likelihood, you or someone you know has had their life enormously impacted by the caregiving needs of a loved one. Three years ago, we introduced the timely Courage for Caregivers initiative. Out of this has come four books for both professional caregivers and for those providing care for a loved one - including the soon-to-be released Reflections on Caregiving. We continue to host one-day Courage for Caregivers Retreats in locations around North America, and the demand for more underscores just how needed and appreciated these respites for caregivers really are.
As you can see, we have been making a concerted effort to extend Henri's reach to new audiences. These programs, and our other ongoing initiatives, require sustained support. Your one-time, monthly, or legacy gift will help us continue to touch lives and encourage hearts-young and old-for years to come. Please consider supporting these wonderful initiatives with a donation to the Henri Nouwen Society. Thank you so much for partnering with us. It is your support that makes our work possible. Faithfully,
Karen Pascal Executive Director
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