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University of St. Michael's College, John M. Kelly Library, Special Collections Henri Nouwen Collection
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Interview with Jean and Rex Arnett

File consists of an interview with Jean and Rex Arnett interviewed by Errol Stein presumably at their home (Scarborough, ON). Jean and Rex Arnett are the parents of Adam and Michael Arnett, core members of L'Arche Daybreak; Nouwen was Adam Arnett's assistant. Additional ephemera in the file includes correspondence between Adam Arnett and Myra Alexander, copies of two photographs of Myra (originals available in General Files), 'Adam's Passion' by Geoffrey Whitney Brown, two copies of a poem about Adam by Archie B. Aitcheson, a letter to Adam from Peter [Don?] writing from L'Arche Trosly in France and one typed letter from Nouwen to Jean and Rex Arnett on his reflections after Adam's death. The interview is not transcribed.

Interview with Maxine Clarke Beach

File consists of an interview with Maxine Clarke Beach interviewed by Michael Christensen and Rebecca Laird at the Lily Guard Hotel in Ocean Grove (NJ). Beach lives in Chatham, NJ and is Vice-President of Drew University and Dean of the Drew Theological School (Madison, NJ). Beach met Nouwen as a student of Harvard University (Cambridge, MA) from 1983 to 1985. Beach recounts experiences with Nouwen at the Catholic Retreat Centre (Boston, MA) and a 1991 speaking engagement at the Scarrett Bennett Centre (Nashville, TN). Themes present in Beach's interview include social justice, ministry in Africa, 'The Wounded Healer' and 'The Genesee Diaries'. There is a colour print in the file of Beach posing on stone steps with flowers in the background. The interview is transcribed and is available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Jurjen Beumer

File consists of an interview with Jurjen Beumer interviewed by Peter Naus in Haarlam, The Netherlands. Beumer is Director and Pastor of Oecumenisch Diaconaal Centrum Stem in de Stad in the Netherlands, or Voice in the City, a religious-based welcoming house for people in distress. Beumer wrote the biography 'The Spirituality of Henri Nouwen' published in 1996. The interview is transcribed and is available electronically and in hard copy. All transcriptions and recordings are in Dutch. Brief English notes from the interviewer are available in the file. They include, "His story was fascinating, informative and balanced in its description and evaluation of Henri as a person and of his work. This is perhaps not surprising given that Jurgen wrote the first biography about Henri. He raised some intriguing and important questions. It's unfortunate we did not have enough time to pursue them."

Interview with Kathy Bruner

File consists of an interview with Kathy Bruner interviewed by Gabrielle Earnshaw at the Henri Nouwen Archives and Research Collection at St. Michael's College (Toronto, ON). Bruner lives in Bloomington, IN and is a Special Education Coordinator for the public school system. Bruner lived in several L'Arche communities including L'Arche Buffalo and L'Arche Washington. Bruener first met Nouwen at a Jean Vanier retreat (Washington, DC) and they subsequently developed a very strong bond living together at L'Arche Daybreak (Richmond Hill, ON); after the death of her partner, John O'Brien, Nouwen was a significant source of comfort to Bruner and her son Tim. Themes present in Bruner's interview include relocation, racial issues, social justice, community, death, depression, the father figure and grief. The interview is transcribed is available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Frederick de Bruyn

File consists of an interview with Frederick (Fic) de Bruyn interviewed by Peter Naus in Amersfoort, The Netherlands. de Bruyn lives in Amersfoort, The Netherlands and is a retired priest from the Archdiocese of Utrecht. de Bruyn met Nouwen at the Rijsenburg seminary (The Netherlands). The interview is transcribed and available electronically or in hard copy. All transcriptions and audio recordings are in Dutch. Brief English notes from the interviewer are available in the file. They include: “Fic is a retired priest from the archdiocese of Utretcht. He knew Henri from the Rijsenburg seminary, although he claimed he never got to know him all that well. He was also, like Henri, a member of the Newman club at seminary. He came across as a thoughtful, kind man who has weathered the storms in Dutch Roman Catholicism very well. His feelings about Henri's books were mixed; he thought Henri overly 'spiritualised' social problems, something he also noticed when he visited Henri in New York City somewhere in the seventies. I wish I could have talked some more with him about the climate in the Dutch Roman Church and how he had come to grips with it. He made several self deprecatory comments with respect to the interview and did not seem convinced by my assurances that his observations were very useful. I should mention also that he not respond initially to my request for an interview. I asked the assistance of another interviewee, Rene van Eyden, to convince him to participate."

Interview with Steve Ellis

File consists of an interview with Steve Ellis interviewed by Gabrielle Earnshaw at L'Arche Daybreak (Richmond Hill, ON). Ellis a retail manager and guitarist living at L'Arche Daybreak. Ellis met Nouwen through his mother, Connie Ellis, and subsequently lived with him at L'Arche Daybreak from 1986-1995. Ellis remembers Nouwen's personality, Nouwen's relationship with children and core members and the eulogy Nouwen gave at Connie Ellis' funeral. Themes present in Ellis' interview include music, sports, traveling, Jean Vanier, L'Arche Trosly, fate, normalcy, Rembrandt's 'The Return of the Prodigal Son', community and Nouwen's letter writing. The interview has been described and is available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Boris Gudziak

File consists of an interview with Boris Gudziak interviewed by Joe Vorstermans in the Ukraine. Gudziak lives in the Ukraine and is a priest of the Lviv Archdiocese of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church. Gudziak met Nouwen as a graduate student at Harvard (Cambridge, MA). Gudziak remembers Nouwen for their comfortable friendship; morning prayers at Coach House at Harvard; in confession; visits at L'Arche Trosly (France) L'Arche Daybreak (Richmond Hill, ON) and with the Gavigans in England; Nouwen's advice on Gudizak's move to the Ukraine and Nouwen's intent to teach in the Ukraine after his L'Arche Daybreak sabbatical. Themes present in Gudziak's interview include the Second World War, Cardinal Josyf Slipyj, prayer life, relocation, revolution in Eastern Europe, depression, Nouwen's death and Nouwen's legacy. The interview is transcribed and available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Terry Hargrave

File consists of an interview with Terry Hargrave interviewed by Joe Vorstermans at Hargrave's office in Amarillo, TX. Hargrave is a professor of counseling and therapist at the Amarillo Family Institute in Amarillo, TX. Hargrave met Nouwen through Malcolm Street; Nouwen counseled Hargrave through difficult periods in his life. Themes present in Hargrave's interview include abuse, introduction to the Catholic faith, The Navigators, marriage, aging, film and television, depression and Nouwen's legacy. The interview is transcribed but only available in hard copy.

Interview with Gordie Henry

File consists of an interview with Gordie Henry interviewed by Maureen Wright and Errol Stein at L'Arche Daybreak (Richmond Hill, ON). Henry was Nouwen's friend, traveling companion and spiritual directee at L'Arche Daybreak. Prints in the file are of Henry's childhood and life at L'Arche Daybreak; two of the prints are of Nouwen and Henry and one shows Henry at Nouwen's grave. One page of post interview notes by Wright are also in the file. The interview is not transcribed and only available on audio cassette.

Interview with Jeff Jackson and Maurice Monette

File consists of an interview with Jeff Jackson and Maurice Monette interviewed by Sue Mosteller and Joe Vorstermans at their home in Oakland, CA. Jackson works in health care management and Monette is an organizational leadership coach and professor. Monette met Nouwen at the Centre for Concern, a social justice agency in Washington DC and introduced him to Jackson once Jackson and Monette were married. Monette and Jackson recall visits with Nouwen and Frank Hamilton and sharing advice on spirituality and sexuality. Themes present in the interview include social justice, rejection, loneliness, homosexuality and religion, intimacy, and coming out. The file also includes 'Unmeasured Words: Reflections on the death of a Dear Friend' by Monette. The interview is in two parts, solely Monette and Monette and Jackson together. The interview is transcribed and available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Siobhan Keogh

File consists of an interview with Siobhan Keogh interviewed by Sue Mosteller in Toronto, ON. Keogh is a professional engineer living in Toronto, ON. Keogh met Nouwen as an assistant at L'Arche Daybreak (Richmond Hill, ON) and he later became her spiritual director when she was an associate member. Themes present in Keogh's interview include immigration, the Youth Corps, education, gender roles, General Electric, dancing and marriage. The interview is transcribed and is available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Gerard McCrane

File consists of an interview with Gerard McCrane interviewed by Joe Vorstermans at McCrane's home at the Maryknoll Residence (Chicago, IL). McCrane is a Catholic priest and Maryknoll missioner and the former director of the Instituto de Idiomas language school in Cochabamba, Bolivia. McCrane met Nouwen in South America when Nouwen attended the Instituto de Idiomas in 1981. McCrane recalls Nouwen's experiences in South America, Nouwen's 25th anniversary ordination celebration and Nouwen's intention to enter the priesthood permanently in South America. Themes present in McCrane's interview include the Korean War, Maryknoll, Martin Luther King, language and Nouwen as celebrity. Brief notes from Joe Vorstermans summarizing the interview experience are also in the file as well as McCrane's business card. The interview is transcribed and is available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Paul Nouwen

File consists of an interview with Paul Nouwen interviewed by Paul Naus in the Netherlands. Paul Nouwen is Nouwen's brother and he lives in the Netherlands. The print is of Paul Nouwen dressed formally and posed in front of a painting; the picture is taken from his shoulders up. The interview is transcribed and available electronically and in hard copy. All transcriptions and recordings are in Dutch. Brief English notes from the interviewer are available in the file. They include: "Unfortunately because of a mix-up our interview started almost an hour late and Paul seemed a little discombobulated as a result. The interview also had to be shortened because of another appointment Paul had made. Much of the interview was focused on his disappointment about the lack of contact between himself and his brother and sister. Although he expressed much affection for Henri and indicated to have much respect for his publications, he had some critical things to say about him as well. A day or so later, Paul phoned me to tell me how much he enjoyed the interview, and especially the fact that he had been allowed to tell his story without being interrupted by questions. He also noted that he had no idea ahead of time that he was going to talk about his disappointment and sadness regarding the strained relationship with his brother and sister."

Interview with Father Bill Scanlon

File consists of an interview with Father Bill Scanlon interviewed by Sue Mosteller at the St. Mary Immaculate Church (Richmond Hill, ON). Father Scanlon lives in Richmond Hill, ON and is the Roman Catholic Parish Priest at St. Mary Immaculate Church. Father Scanlon met Nouwen as St. Mary Immaculate Church was Nouwen's home parish when he lived at L'Arche Daybreak (Richmond Hill, ON). Father Scanlon recalls giving pastoral care and the Sacrament of Reconciliation to Nouwen and holding a Priest's retreat in which Nouwen attended. Themes present in Father Scanlon's interview include the Eucharist, Jean Vanier and Nouwen's grave. The interview is transcribed and available electronically or in hard copy; there are two hard copies in the file.

Interview with Jan ter Laak

File consists of an interview with Jan ter Laak interviewed by Peter Naus in The Netherlands. ter Laak is a former Roman Catholic Priest and former secretary general of Pax Christie, a non-profit, non-governmental Catholic peace movement working on a global scale on a wide variety of issues in the fields of human rights, human security, disarmament and demilitarisation, just world order and religion and violent conflict. The interview is transcribed and available electronically and in hard copy. All transcriptions and recordings are in Dutch. Brief English notes from the interviewer are in the file. They include: "Jan is a former priest of the archdiocese of Utrecht; he was in the seminary a few years after Henri. Since his retirement from the position of secretary of Pax Christie The Netherlands, he has been working for a number of Dutch human rights organizations. Jan is gay and my impression is that he served as a confident to Henri who discussed his struggles with homosexuality with him. In the interview, Jan brought Henri's homosexuality to the fore. He believes Henri's restlessness and fatigue were related to his sexual struggles. Going by Jan's information, there is no doubt Henri engaged in sexual encounters, with one man in particular. Jan did not reveal this man's identity but suggested he be interviewed for the project. Presumably Jan is willing to provide the contact, if necessary. I think Jan and I had an excellent rapport which enabled him to talk rather freely. He sent me an email after to let me know he thought we had a good interview".

Interview with Maria ter Steeg

File consists of an interview with Maria ter Steeg interviewed by Peter Naus in the Netherlands. ter Steeg is a theologian living in the Netherlands. The interview is transcribed and available electronically or in hard copy. All the transcriptions and recordings are only in Dutch. Brief English notes from the interviewer are in the file. They include: "Maria was the first female pastor of the Dutch Roman Catholic radio station and she is currently a member of the governing council of the archdiocese of Utrecht. She got to know Henri mostly because he and her husband, Louis ter Steeg, were friends. She did not believe she had much to contribute to the project, but I found her observations very useful. She made a few suggestions as to why Henri was not much respected by some of his fellow priests in the Utrecht diocese. The one she stressed is that his socio-economic background set him apart. Where many of his fellow priests were lower or lower middle class, Henri was from an upper middle class to higher class family. She also made interesting comments about his attachment to Daybreak; she thought it may have been the first place where Henri made real connections with people. Her mother was a good friend of Henri's mother and Maria talked a little bit about what her mother had told her about Henri's family".

Interview with George Thelus

File consists of an interview with George Thelus interviewed by Maureen Wright and Wendy Lywood (location unknown). Thelus was a core member of the L'Arche Daybreak community (Richmond Hill, ON) currently lives in a long term care facility in Richmond Hill, ON. Thelus often traveled with Nouwen when they both lived at L'Arche Daybreak. The interview is not transcribed.

Interview with Joe Vorstermans

File consists of an interview with Joe Vorstermans interviewed by Elisabeth Pozzi-Thanner at the Henri Nouwen Society offices in Richmond Hill, ON. Vorstermans is an executive member of the Henri Nouwen Society and lives and works in L'Arche Daybreak (Richmond Hill, ON). Vorstermans was the assistant's coordinator in 1986 when Nouwen arrived at L'Arche Daybreak. In 1996 Vorstermans became pastor while Nouwen was on sabbatical and subsequently had to lead the L'Arche Daybreak community through the grief process with Nouwen's death. Vorstermans recalls Nouwen performing Mass, Nouwen assisting after core member Raymond Batchelor's accident, Nouwen going to Homes for Growth (Winnipeg, MA), the L'Arche assistant's retreat and Nouwen's letter writing. Themes present in Vorstermans' interview include immigration, Jean Vanier, Alzheimer's L'Arche Daybreak over time, interfaith community, Bill van Buren and Nouwen's legacy. The print is of Vorstermans standing on a beach with his hands in his pockets dressed very causally. The interview is transcribed and available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Harold Weinstein

File consists of an interview with Harold Weinstein interviewed by Maureen Wright at Weinstein's home in Markham, ON; Weinstein is a retired jeweler. Weinstein's daughter Ellen lived as a core member with Nouwen at the L'Arche Daybreak community (Richmond Hill, ON). Weinstein recalls celebrating Ellen's Bap Mitzvah and Passover with Nouwen and how Nouwen helped in Weinstein's relationship with his daughter. Themes present in Weinstein's interview include music, Judaism, Glengarda (Windsor, ON), Nouwen's death, Nouwen as a messenger, Nouwen's gestures and the 'Mourner's Kaddish'. Post interview notes from Maureen Wright and a copy of a Jewish prayer are also in the file. The interview is transcribed and is available electronically or in hard copy; there are two hard copies in the file.

Interview with Pieter Oussoren

File consists of an interview with Pieter Oussoren interviewed by Peter Naus in Utrecht, Netherlands. Oussoren was a former student and friend of Nouwen. There is no transcription available.

Nouwen Letter Project

Series consists of materials from various iterations of the Nouwen Letter Projects that began as an initiative by the Henri Nouwen Literary Centre under the direction of Sister Sue Mosteller, executrix of the Henri Nouwen Literary Centre, in 1998. The goal of the project was to gather as much of Nouwen’s original material as possible. This encompassed his letters, manuscripts, articles, photographs, and other audiovisual material. After the original 1998 campaign, there have been successive campaigns together with the University of St. Michael's College Special Collections to continue the collection efforts for the project.

Card from Jennie Strasser

File consists of a handwritten card sent from Nouwen to Strasser with a photograph of a winter scene on it. A Christmas card to Nouwen from Strasser has been removed to the General file.

Letters from Michael Arnett

File consists of two postcards from Henri Nouwen addressed to Michael Arnett and a colour photograph of Nouwen dressed as a clown from his 60th birthday party in 1992. The photograph has the following annotation on the back: "clowning in Rome...clowning at Daybreak (a couple of naturals!)". File includes a note to Sue Mosteller stating the postcards are from Rex Arnett.

Material collected by Pat Sibley Parry

File consists of memorial material collected by Pat Sibley Parry including funeral and memorial services; L'Arche Daybreak newsletters referencing Nouwen's passing; a typescript of Jean Vanier's eulogy at Nouwen's funeral in Utrecht; a meditation by Nouwen with a photograph of Nouwen and Mike Parry from October 17, 1982; and correspondence. Correspondence details as follows:

  • 1996 October 6, – written by Margaret to Manette and Henry
  • 1996 November – written by Laurent Nouwen to Sibley

Henri Nouwen Society photographs

These photographic materials relate to the Henri Nouwen Society and are arranged as follows:

1) Negatives. Archive opening. Taken by Wendy Lywood. 2000.

2) Negatives and 6 photographs. Archive opening #1. Taken by Beth Porter. September 21, 2000.

3) Negatives and 2 photographs. Archive opening #2. Taken by Beth Porter. September 21, 2000.

4) Negatives. Archive opening #3. September 21, 2000.

5) Negatives and 2 photographs. Archive opening #4. Taken by Beth Porter. September 21, 2000.

6) 9 Photographs. Archive opening and HNS board meeting. September, 2000.

7) 2 Photographs. HNS board meeting. [ca. 2003].

8) 9 Photographs. 10265 Yonge St. Pancake Tuesdays. 2004.

9) Negatives, 6 photographs and 1 contact sheet. Photographs of flowers sent to HNS. [ca. 2004].

10) Negatives and 1 contact sheet. L'Arche and HNS office BBQ at Marylou's. Last [picture] of Sarah Halub [illegible], Dave Haimon and Carl; Wendt and Thelus. 2005.

11) Negatives and 1 contact sheet. JOH gift bags; Peggy and Al; Marais and Collin; Marylou's retirement. 2006-2007.

12) 9 Photographs and 1 letter** from Robert J. Nunney to Maureen Wright. Photographs of Bob Durback sent to Maureen Wright by Burback's nephew, Robert J. Nunney. 2011.

13) 9 Colour print-outs. Inkjet photographic prints by the Henri Nouwen Society highlighting events and members. Magnets on verso. 2000-2010.

14) 6 Photographs. Miscellaneous photographs from the Henri Nouwen Society. [200?]

15) 26 photographs. Photographs removed from a photo binder and placed in acid-free envelopes. The front of the photo binder said: "St. John's Centre. Photos taken on Thursday, July 30, 1992 on visit to Ball's Falls and Saint John's Centre in the Niagara Peninsula, of Paul Kennedy, Nathan Ball, Frs. Henri Nouwen and Edward Jackman of L'Arche Daybreak, Richmond Hill." Photos are now numbered #1-26, which corresponds to their order within the binder.

** This letter was removed by archival staff and can be found separately in the archives. See the "Allied Material" section of this page for more info.

Nouwen Family Photograph Albums

File consists of Nouwen family photograph albums. Predominantly put together by Maria Nouwen, also included is one album put together by Laurent J.M. Nouwen (Album 8) in the mid-1990s. The albums are titled the following:

  • Photograph Album 1 [1960-1969]
  • Photograph Album 2 [1966-1975]
  • Photograph Album 4 [1938-1940]
  • Photograph Album 6 [1953-1961]
  • Photograph Album 7 [1938-1948]
  • Photograph Album 8 [1993-1996]
  • Photograph Album 9 [1957]
  • Photograph Album 12 [1948-1956]
  • Photograph Album 13 [1971-1975]
  • Photograph Album 15 [1964-1970]
  • Photograph Album 16 [1934-1939]
  • Photograph Album 17 [1934]
  • Photograph Album 18 [1932-1934]
  • Memorial Album [1982-1996]

Family photograph album 2

Album 2 consists of photographs of the Nouwen family and their friends, including Marc van Campen and Marina San Giorgi, taken between 1965 and 1975. Put together by Maria Nouwen, the images are casual in nature and predominantly focus on trips taken by Maria and Laurent J.M. Nouwen to England, France, Israel, Italy, Saudi Arabia and the United States, as well as special occasions such as the Nouwen's 40th wedding anniversary in 1971, Philip van Campen's 60th birthday and the PhD graduation of Peter Naus. Henri, Paul, Laurent and Laurien Nouwen appear throughout the album with an entire page dedicated to Henri Nouwen's time at the Abbey of the Genesee in Piffard, New York and several others are dedicated to Paul Nouwen riding horses and his appearance on a Dutch TV program hosted by Ageeth Scherphuis. Of interest is a photo of a young Laurent J.M. Nouwen taken in 1926 [P6369].

Family photograph album 9

Album 9 consists of photographs taken in 1957 during Henri Nouwen's time at the major seminary in Rijsenburg, the Netherlands where he studied philosophy and theology. The majority of the photos are dedicated to Nouwen's ordination as a priest by Cardinal Bernardus Alfrink, Archbishop of Utrecht on July 21, 1957, a formal dinner at the Hotel de Witte Brug in Scheveningen in celebration of the event on July 28, 1957 and his first Holy Mass at Lourdeskerk in Scheveningen, the Netherlands. Family and friends including Laurent J.M., Maria, Laurent and Laurien Nouwen, Toon Ramselaar, Jan and Ella Leijten (nee Nouwen), Francois and Liesje Tombeur, Ivonne and Bert Peperkorn, Ferdinand de Grijs and Jelmer Huisman are seen in several of the photos. Scrapbook like in nature, the album's photos are punctuated by ephemera relevant to the ordination and dinner including newspaper clippings, song lyrics, copies of speeches given by family members and a menu from the celebration dinner. Also included are photos from an unidentified church event and photos of Henri Nouwen in casual and more formal group shots with colleagues and friends at the major seminary.

Family photograph album 16

Album 16 consists of photographs taken between 1934 and 1939. Put together by Maria Nouwen the album is dedicated to Paul Nouwen, beginning with photos of him as an infant and continuing until he is roughly 5 years of age. Laurent J.M., Maria, Henri and Paul Nouwen are seen with family and friends, including Sara M. and Tennis Ramselaar, Judith and Lien Otto (nee Ramselaar), Henricus, Maria H.R. and Jeanne Nouwen and Els Albregts, throughout. The photos focus predominantly on day to day events at the family home in Nijkerk and later in Bussum, such as Paul Nouwen being held and cared for as an infant, the Nouwen children playing outdoors with friends and the Nouwens posing for photos. Special occasions documented in the album include a trip to Italy taken by Laurent J.M. and Maria Nouwen; Wim Ramselaar's marriage to Rie Letscherts; Paul Nouwen's 4th birthday party; and a beach trip to Wijk aan Zee in 1938.

Family photograph album 18

Album 18 consists of photographs taken between 1932 and 1934. Put together by Maria Nouwen, the album is predominantly dedicated to photos of Henri Nouwen as a newborn and infant at the family home in Nijkerk. Nouwen is seen being held and cared for by family, including Maria and Laurent J.M. Nouwen, Sara M. Ramselaar and [Nel Laumans (nee Ramselaar)?], and in professional portraits taken during his first year. Also included are newspaper clippings of announcements about his birth and postcards dedicated to important events in his life including his baptism and first birthday.

Kevin F. Dwyer photographs

File consists of photographs of Henri Nouwen by Kevin Dwyer. The phototographs were taken in 1996 when Nouwen and Frank Hamilton visited Dwyer and his partner Al (Alvaro) Carrasco in Guerneville, California. These photographs were commissioned by Nouwen on a casual basis, and used for promotional purposes. One photograph was used for the first edition of "With Burning Hearts: A Meditation on the Eucharistic Life". One folder contains a context on the images from the photographer and stipulations for use.

Robert A. Jonas photograph

File consists of a photograph that was collected along with other items created or received by Nouwen during his sabbatical year of 1995. During the fall of his sabbatical he stayed with Robert Jonas and Margaret Bullit-Jonas in their home in Watertown, Massachusetts. Nouwen left all of the collected material behind in their house and it was later donated as a result of the 2010 Letter Project. Photograph appears to be a communion at home with Nouwen.

Rev. Donald C. Kocher photographs

File consists of four photographs taken of Kocher with Henri Nouwen and Francis Maurice at a small book signing for "Can You Drink the Cup?" in Illinois on September 6, 1996.

Susan Russo photographs

File consists of three colour photographs taken of Nouwen from 1981 to 1985. Photographer is unknown.

  • P3458: Colour photograph taken of Henri Nouwen in January 1981. The photograph is of Nouwen seated at restaurant table wearing a blue shirt. On the verso of the item is written "Yale University January 1981".
  • P3459: Colour photograph taken of Henri Nouwen in July 1985. The photograph is of Nouwen sitting behind a wooden desk signing books in a Boston College classroom. On the verso is written "Boston College July 1985". Photo was scanned as P151 as part of the CDRI Grant Project.
  • P3460: Colour photograph taken of Henri Nouwen in July 1985. The photograph is of Nouwen sitting on a bench talking to students, including Ruby Hugh (red top), at Boston College. On the verso is written "Boston College July 1985". Photography by Elaine Eskesen. Photo was scanned as P152 as part of the CDRI Grant Project

Peter J. Naus photographs

File consists of 10 photographs of Nouwen in Utrecht, NL, during a meeting and posing outdoors for photographer, J.W. Wits; eight are copies of photographs in File 163, P2215 - P2222, of the Photographs series in the Henri Nouwen fonds. File also includes a copy of an invitation to Nouwen's ordination (July, 1957).

Pentecost celebrations in June 1959

File consists of a photograph of Laurent J.M., Maria, Henri, Paul, Laurent and Laurien Nouwen in their Scheveningen home around a table. The photograph was taken during Pentecost in spring 1959 by Mr. de Kok.

Stone, Callie

File consists of personal correspondence from Callie Stone to Nouwen regarding her faith and charitable contributions. Included is original poetry, prayer pamphlets and seasonal greeting cards. Also in the file is a photograph of Stone and her husband Winthrop (Win) Stone; a photograph of a view of the St. Philips in the Hills Episcopal Church grounds; and personal correspondence from Stone to Sue Mosteller, Kathy Christie and “friends” at L’Arche Daybreak regarding Nouwen’s enduring message, Stone’s her charity work and financial donations.

Oral History Project

Series consists of materials from the 'Completing the Vision: The Oral History of Henri Nouwen' project that was undertaken by Sister Sue Mosteller, Executrix of the Henri Nouwen Literary Centre in partnership with the Henri Nouwen Society and The Henri Nouwen Archives and Research Collection. The project was funded by grants from the Louisville Institution, the Nouwen Society and gifts in kind. The project intended to capture the personal and intimate nature of Nouwen's life and works by interviewing people from Nouwen's extensive network of intellectuals, clerics, lay ministers and ordinary citizens including those from all socio-economic backgrounds, cultures, faiths and traditions who were influenced by Nouwen or influenced him. The interviews were meant to paint a multi-coloured canvas of Nouwen in his many roles and give us a perspective not available in his own writings. Further, the project was a contribution to the ongoing study of religious experience in the 20th century. The project had three specific goals:

  • Fill in historically significant gaps in the present record of Nouwen's life
  • Gain an understanding of why and how a man of such enormous contradictions touched the lives of so many people and drew criticisms of others
  • To give an opportunity for the wide variety of people who were impacted by Nouwen and who in turn contributed to his theological and pastoral vision to give expression to their experience and understanding

From these goals it is hoped this project would act as a resource for contemporary ministry and be an inspiration for ministers, teachers and lay people alike. Further, the project would compliment the writings of Henri Nouwen and the dozen or so newly published books that have explored his legacy since his death.

The interviews conducted for this project relate to four specific periods in Nouwen's life:

  • Early Seminary/University Years 1951-1964
  • Menniger and Notre Dame Years 1964-1967
  • Yale and Harvard Years 1971-1985
  • Final ten years at L'Arche Daybreak 1986-1987

The interviewees range in age, occupation and geographic location but all had a significant relationship with Nouwen at some point in his life. The methodology of the project involved asking each interviewee to spend 30-40 minutes of their interview naming the influences that formed them, their primary relationships, their mission/profession and how their life crossed with Nouwen's.

Over a 24 month period, 93 interviews were conducted, each averaging two hours in length, providing more than 180 hours of multi-textured content regarding Nouwen's theological vision and its impact. The interviewees also recount events of their personal lives and other significant influences unrelated to their relationship with Nouwen. The interviews took place all over North and South America, Europe and Asia and were documented in audio and/or video format. Some of the interviews have been transcribed and a hard copy and/or electronic copy of the transcription are available. Most the interviews and transcriptions are available in English while some are only available in Dutch.

Henri Nouwen Society

Interview with Carmen Ellis

File consists of an interview with Carmen Ellis interviewed by Gabrielle Earnshaw at L'Arche Daybreak (Richmond Hill, ON). Ellis is a head of house in the L'Arche Daybreak community. Ellis met Nouwen through her mother-in-Law, Connie Ellis, and subsequently lived with him in the L'Arche Daybreak community. Ellis remembers lunches with Nouwen, his relationship with L'Arche core members, praying with Nouwen, Nouwen's gestures and Nouwen's comfort through Ellis' mother-in-law's illness. Themes present in Ellis' interview include community, Jean Vanier, L'Arche Trosly, the mother figure, Nouwen's sexuality and Nouwen's funeral. The interview is transcribed and is available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with David Harmon

File consists of an interview with David Harmon interviewed by Maureen Wright and Carl MacMillian (location unknown). The interview is not transcribed and only available on audio cassette.

Interview with Father Don MacNeill CSC

File consists of an interview with Father Don MacNeill CSC interviewed by Joe Vorstermans at MacNeill's house in Chicago, IL. MacNeill is a parish priest and Senior Fellow at the University of Notre Dame (Notre Dame, ID). MacNeill met Nouwen when he took a course from him at Notre Dame in 1966. MacNeill also cowrote 'Compassion' with Nouwen. MacNeill recalls using Nouwen's materials in his own teaching career and attending several retreats with Nouwen. Themes present in MacNeill's interview include the United States Army, Holy Cross priests, social activism, Centre for Social Concerns (Notre Dame, ID), the father figure, death and the Eucharist. The interview is transcribed and is available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Parker J. Palmer

File consists of an interview with Parker J. Palmer interviewed by Sue Mosteller at the Fetzer Institute in Kalamazoo, MI. Palmer is a writer and teacher living in Madison, WI. Parker met Nouwen when they were panelists on spirituality for the Lily Endowment, a private philanthropic foundation in Indianapolis, ID. Palmer recalls retreats at the Mercy Centre, St. Benedict Center and New Haven, teaching Nouwen about Quaker practices and Nouwen's 25th anniversary ordination celebration. Themes present in Palmer's interview include Pendle Hill (Wallingford, PA), Berkeley University in the 1960s, adoption, grandparents, depression, Nouwen's sexuality, Nouwen and finances and Nouwen's legacy. The interview is transcribed and available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Pat Parry

File consists of an interview with Pat Parry [Sibley] interviewed by Joe Vorstermans at Parry's home in Alfred Station, NY. Parry is a professor of English at Alfred University, NY. Parry met Nouwen while on sabbatical from Alfred University at Yale Divinity School and developed a lifelong friendship with him. Parry recalls meeting Nouwen's parents, celebrating Easter Sunday Mass and visiting in The Netherlands, at the Sibley family and the Nouwen home in Lausanne, Switzerland. Themes present in Parry's interview include racial issues, Hiroshima, traveling, Pendle Hill (Wallingford, PA) and John Mogabgab. The interview is transcribed and is available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Cardinal Adrianus Simonis

File consists of an interview with Cardinal Adrianus Simonis interviewed by Peter Naus in The Netherlands. The print of Cardinal Simonis is from the shoulder up wearing his clerical collar; the background is blurry. The interview is transcribed and available electronically or in hard copy. All recordings and transcriptions are in Dutch. Brief English notes from the interviewer are available in the file. They include: "I was pleasantly surprised the Cardinal decided to keep the appointment for the interview, despite having returned from Rome a couple of days before. I wonder if Maria ter Steeg put in a good word for me. At any rate, the interview went well, except it was a little rushed because the Cardinal arrived late and had an appointment immediately following our session. He was self-assured and did not hesitate to give his opinion on Henri and his publications. He is no fan of the latter, although his comments about Henri were rather positive! I prompted him to talk at some length about the changes in Dutch Roman Catholicism after the Second Vatican Council, because these changes are part of the context in which Henri decided to leave Holland for good. The Cardinal has a reputation of being rather conservative - he prefers to call it 'orthodox' - and the interview illustrates it rather well. He was quite amiable and willing to participate in the project".

Interview with Marcie Taylor

File consists of an interview with Marcie Taylor interviewed by Gabrielle Earnshaw (location unknown). Taylor lives in Richmond Hill, ON and is a social worker and head of the Pastoral Team at L'Arche Daybreak (Richmond Hill, ON). Taylor was a member of the L'Arche Daybreak community with Nouwen since 1991 and helped to found Spirit Movers. Taylor recalls Nouwen's vulnerability, his many friendships, Nouwen's 60th birthday party, Nouwen's uselessness at regular tasks and praying with Nouwen. Themes present in Nouwen's interview include the mother figure, death, marital problems, homelessness, Habitat for Humanity, Adam Arnett, her decision to go to L'Arche Daybreak and the Dayspring Pastoral Team. A letter from Taylor to Joe Vorstermans is in the file thanking Vorsterman for being able to participate in the project. The interview is transcribed and is available in hard copy.

Interview with Louis ter Steeg

File consists of an interview with Louis ter Steeg interviewed by Peter Naus in The Netherlands; ter Steeg lives in The Netherlands. Several typed letters from Nouwen on Holy Cross Fathers University of Notre Dame letterhead written to ter Steeg are in the file; they date 1970-1996 and are all in Dutch. There is one copy of handwritten letter from Nouwen to ter Steeg dated 1984. The interview is transcribed and is available electronically or in hard copy. All transcriptions and recordings are in Dutch. Brief English notes from the interviewer are in the file, "Louis, who was a close friend of Henri, told a well-articulated, well-rounded story about Henri and himself. Louis was a few years behind Henri in seminary. He sketched well Henri's position among his fellow-seminarians. Louis got very emotional a few times when talking about Henri's problems. If there is a follow-up visit to Holland, it might be worthwhile to interview Louis' wife, Maria. She is very familiar with Henri's publications, in fact translated some of them into Dutch, I think, and might have some insightful things to say about the impact of Henri's writings in Holland".

Interview with William Van Buren

File consists of an interview with William Van Buren interviewed by Carl MacMillan and Mauren Wright at L'Arche Daybreak (Richmond Hill, ON). Van Buren is a core member of L'Arche Daybreak and was a friend and traveling companion of Nouwen's from the community. The file includes post interview notes from Wright. The interview is not transcribed and is only available on audio and video cassette.

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