Michael Higgins

Henri Nouwen Michael Higgins

Henri Nouwen (1932–1996) was one of the most popular and influential spiritual thinkers of the twentieth century. Born in the Netherlands, Nouwen was ordained as a Catholic priest and trained as a psychologist. He spent much of his life in America, where he ministered and taught throughout the continent. His profound spiritual works, such as The Return of the Prodigal Son and Life of the Beloved, develop such compelling concepts as the restless searching of the heart and the agony of being human. This course is presented by Dr. Michael W. Higgins, the co-author of Genius Born of Anguish: The Life and Legacy of Henri Nouwen. Through twelve masterful lectures, you will examine the context of Nouwen’s most important works, the evolution of his ideas, and the struggles of his spirit. You will also explore his life, which will help you understand the autobiographical nature of his works. Nouwen was a great teacher, and over the course of his life, he was a popular professor at Notre Dame, Yale, and Harvard. He was also an innovative psychologist who understood the deep connection between spirituality and psychology. Henri Nouwen developed a spirituality for the wounded, but within it he also presents us with genuine joy, boundless energy, and, ultimately, hope. You are invited to meet and come to know Nouwen through this powerful course.