Henri Nouwen (1932-1996) was a Dutch clergyman, theologian, and author widely known for his influential spiritual writings and teachings. He was born in Nijkerk, Netherlands, and was ordained as a Catholic priest in 1957. Nouwen was a distinguished professor at various universities, including Yale Divinity School and Harvard Divinity School. Although highly esteemed in academic circles, he became increasingly disillusioned and sought to explore a more meaningful and personal spirituality. This led him to work with mentally disabled individuals at L’Arche Daybreak Community in Toronto, Canada. Nouwen’s experiences there profoundly shaped his views on compassion, vulnerability, and Christian faith, which he shared through his numerous successful books such as “The Return of the Prodigal Son” and “The Wounded Healer”. Despite his struggles with his own emotional and mental health, Nouwen’s honesty and openness about his difficulties provided comfort and guidance to countless individuals seeking spiritual enrichment. His invaluable contributions to Christian spirituality continue to inspire and resonate with readers worldwide.