Experts: Henri Nouwen, who died in 1996, ‘remains deeply relevant’ for his ‘relational’ spirituality

Experts say the spirituality of Father Henri Nouwen remains relevant to Catholic and Christian pastoral theology three decades after his death. The Dutch born priest, who died of a heart attack on Sept. 21, 1996, authored 39 books that have sold over 8.5 million copies and been translated into more than 35 languages, according to the Henri Nouwen Society.

Scholar and biographer Michael W. Higgins described Nouwen as a complex individual who lived with transparent honesty. Higgins noted that Nouwen's emphasis on relationality is a primary reason his books continue to be published and read.

Nouwen's work blended personal spirituality with psychology, academic dialogue, and missionary experience. His notable writings include The Return of the Prodigal Son, The Wounded Healer, and Life of the Beloved. During his final years, he focused his pastoral work on living with persons with disabilities.