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University of St. Michael's College, John M. Kelly Library, Special Collections File
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Notes from Bowen conference

File consists of a typescript and electronic version of notes taken by Sydney Louise von Lehn at the Bowen Conference (Kanuga) in March 1993 at which Nouwen spoke on the Beloved Community. Von Lehn took these notes while in attendance. The typescript includes von Lehn's personal commentary as well as verbatim passages from Nouwen's talk, as well as that of Sue Mosteller and Bill Van Buren, who also attended the conference.

Drafts of Our greatest gift

  • CA ON00389 F4-1-1-73-1, 73-2, 73-3
  • File
  • [between 1993 and 1994]
  • Part of Henri Nouwen fonds

File consists of a manuscript for "Our Greatest Gift", including notes for the Prologue and Introduction, and a typescript for "The Ultimate Gift: A Meditation on Dying and Caring," with notes by Nouwen. File also includes a floppy disk containing an electronic copy of a draft entitled, "The Ultimate Gift".

News from the Henri Nouwen Society newsletters

File consists of the official publication of the Henri Nouwen Society in Canada and the United States, providing information and updates regarding retreats, study groups, lecture series and other activities. During publication, the Henri Nouwen Society was considered a separate organization from the Henri Nouwen Society in Canada and the Henri Nouwen Literary Centre. In 2003, efforts were made to join the two groups together. As a result, publication was discontinued. The last edition of "News from the Henri Nouwen Society" was published in Winter / Spring 2003. In addition to hard copies of the newsletter, the file includes a 3.5" diskette of electronic files for the Fall 2001 newsletter.

Oral History Proposal

File consists of records and correspondence related to the grant proposal submitted by the Henri Nouwen Society to the Louisville Institute to fund 'Completing the Vision: The Oral History of Henri Nouwen'. The primary correspondence is between James E. Lewis and William Brosend of the Louisville Institute and Joe Vorstermans and Sue Mosteller of the Henri Nouwen Society. The file also includes draft versions of work plans, budgets, final reports and the proposal; final copies are also in the file.

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 Wayne Muller

File consists of an interview with Wayne Muller interviewed by Sue Mosteller at the San Damiano Retreat Centre in Danville, CA. Muller is an author, psychotherapist and minister living in Fairfax, CA. Muller met Nouwen as a student at Harvard Divinity School (Cambridge, MA) from 1983-1985; Muller took Nouwen's retreat course. Themes present in Muller's interview include alcoholism, AIDS, conscientious objection, war, death, grief, Buddhist mediation, Nouwen's sexuality, fundamentalism and Nouwen's legacy. The interview has been transcribed and is available electronically and in hard copy.

Interview with Laurien Nouwen

File consists of an interview with Laurien Nouwen interviewed by Peter Naus in the Netherlands. Laurien Nouwen is Nouwen's sister and lives in The Netherlands. The interview is transcribed and is 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: "Henri's sister did not provide much new information but it was nevertheless valuable to get her impressions of her famous brother, especially since she does not consider herself to be a very spiritual person".

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 Claude Pomerleau CSC

File consists of an interview with Claude Pomerleau CSC interviewed by Errol Stein and Sue Mosteller at Joe Vorsterman's home in Richmond Hill, ON. Pomerleau lives in Portland, OR and is a Professor and Director of the Social Justice Program at the University of Portland (Portland, OR). Pomerleau met Nouwen as a student at the University of Notre Dame (Notre Dame, ID) in 1966. Themes present in Pomerleau's interview include retreats at Lake Michigan, Holy Cross priests, language, education, the University of Chile, Nouwen's death, the Henri Nouwen Society, South America and Nouwen and drama. The interview is transcribed and is available electronically or in hard copy.

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 Lorenzo Sforza-Cesarini

File consists of an interview with Lorenzo Sforza-Cesarini interviewed by Gabrielle Earnshaw at L'Arche Dayspring (Richmond Hill, ON). Sforza-Cesarini is a councilor living in Richmond Hill, ON). Sforza-Cesarini met Nouwen when Sforzi-Cesarini visited L'Arche Daybreak (Richmond Hill, ON) in 1986 and subsequently became a resident; Nouwen was Sforza-Cesarini's spiritual director. Themes present in Sforza-Cesarini's interview include illness, Rome, Southdown (Aurora, ON), Nouwen's death, the Eucharist, praying with Nouwen, writing and Nouwen's funeral in The Netherlands. The interview is transcribed and is available electronically or in hard copy; there are two copies of the transcription in the file.

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 Lon D. Whitman

File consists of an interview with Lon D. Whitman interviewed by Joe Vorstermans at L'Arche Daybreak (Richmond Hill, ON). Whitman is a community leader living and working in L'Arche Erie (Erie, PA). Whitman first met Nouwen at a retreat in Denver, CO and subsequently visited him at L'Arche Daybreak and became his friend in the L'Arche community. Whitman recalls Nouwen in group and personal settings and his interest in the Flying Rodleighs. Themes present in Whitman's interview include migration, L'Arche Trosly (France), South America, L'Arche Harbour House (Jacksonville, FL), corporate life and Madame Vanier. The interview is transcribed and available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Mary Bastedo

File consists of an interview with Mary Bastedo interviewed by Gabrielle Earnshaw at the Cedars Retreat House at L'Arche Daybreak (Richmond Hill, ON). Bastedo is an assistant living and working at L'Arche Daybreak. Bastedo first met Nouwen at L'Arche Trosly (France) and subsequently lived and worked with him at L'Arche Daybreak until his death. Bastedo recalls opening Dayspring Chapel with Nouwen and Nouwen's assistance after core member Raymond Batchelor's accident. Themes present in Bastedo's interview include the Unitarian Church, Jean Vanier, social justice, celibacy, introduction to the Catholic Church, Faith and Life, Nouwen's sexuality, Nouwen's death, Nouwen as celebrity, Mary and interfaith. The interview is transcribed and is available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Alvarro Carrasco

File consists of an interview with Alvarro Carrasco interviewed by Sue Mosteller and Joe Vorstermans in Oakland, CA. Carrasco is an engineer living in Oakland, CA. Carrasco met Nouwen through Michael Harank while working at Holy Redeemer Church and developed a long term friendship with him. Themes present in Carrasco's interview include sexuality, the father figure, death, homosexuality and religion, acceptance and intimacy. Carrasco's interview is a part of an interview conducted with his partner, Kevin Dwyer. The interview is transcribed and is available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Harvey Cox

File consists of an interview with Harvey Cox interviewed by Rebecca Laird at the Harvard Divinity School (Cambridge, MA). Cox is a professor of Divinity at Harvard Divinity School; he was Nouwen's colleague at Harvard from 1983-1985. Cox recounts Nouwen's experiences with colleagues, administrators and students at Harvard. Cox remembers Nouwen for his personality and deep spiritual insights. Themes present in Cox's interview include Nouwen as unconventional and Nouwen as a professor. The interview is transcribed and is available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Peggy Ellsberg

File consists of an interview with Peggy Ellsberg interviewed by Rebecca Laird and Michael Christensen in Ossinging, NY. Ellsberg is a college professor in Ossinging, NY. Ellsberg met Nouwen through her husband, Robert Ellsberg, and subsequently became his editor for 'Gracias' and other work. Ellsberg recounts experiences with Nouwen performing Mass, driving and going to the Catholic Student Centre at Harvard University (Cambridge, MA). Themes present in Ellsberg's interview include Nouwen and academia, Nouwen's good taste, depression and Nouwen's legacy. The interview is transcribed and available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Michael Harank

File consists of an interview with Michael Harank interviewed by Joe Vorstermans in Oakland, CA. Harank is a registered nurse living in Oakland, CA. Harank met Nouwen at 1980 Catholic Worker conference (New York, NY) and through Robert Ellsberg subsequently became his assistant while at Harvard (Cambridge, MA) and in South America. Harank recounts handling Nouwen's correspondence, Nouwen's gestures and assisting in the decision to go to L'Arche Daybreak (Richmond Hill, ON). Themes present in Harank's interview include repression, the Vietnam War, conscientious objection, Holy Cross College (MA), the Catholic Worker Movement, Dorothy Day, Vincent van Gogh, sexuality, AIDS, Bethany House, Nouwen's funeral, Adam Arnett and Laurent Nouwen. Two poems Harank wrote after Nouwen's death are also given in the interview. The interview is transcribed and available electronically or in hard copy.

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 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 Gordon Van Amburgh

File consists of an interview with Gordon van Amburgh interviewed by Joe Vorstermans in Fort Worth, TX. Van Amburgh is a family and marriage therapist living in Fort Worth. van Amburgh met Nouwen through Malcolm Street. van Amburgh recalls the enjoyment he got listening to Nouwen speak and perform Mass. Themes present in van Amburgh's interview include grandparents, the Vietnam War, travelling, The Seekers, Gordie Henry and the Menninger Clinic (Topeka, KA). The interview is transcribed and available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Rene van Eyden

File consists of an interview with Rene van Eyden interviewed by Peter Naus in the Netherlands; van Eyden lives in the Netherlands. Two interviews were conducted by Peter Naus, June 9 2004 and April 29 2005. The interviews are transcribed and available electronically. All transcriptions and recordings are in Dutch. Brief English notes for each interview are available in the file. They include: "June 9 2004, Rene was a few years ahead of Henri in the seminary. He gave an interesting description of Henri's physical bearing as a seminarian. He told delightful anecdotes about Henri's seminary years and his years at the University of Nijmegen. He had made notes ahead of time to help him stay on track in telling his story. He said little about Henri's shadow side. He obviously liked Henri very much but did not want to talk with as much affection about him as Louis ter Steeg did. It's puzzling that Rene has not been interviewed about Henri before because it is obvious that he has much information about him. I would like to interview him again with specific attention for his own family background and his perceptions of the more problematic aspects of Henri's work and personality. Perhaps Rene's wife, Akke, should be interviewed as well because of her experience in Latin America and how these compare with those Henri garnered at about the same time." "April 29, 2005, 'Rene is a former priest of the archdiocese of Utretcht and a long-time friend of Henri. He was also a colleague of him at the 'Katholike Theologische Hogeschool Utrecht'. I interviewed Rene last year, but wanted some more feedback from him on Henri's time at the 'Hogeschool' and also on Henri's weaker points. He again did not say much with respect to the latter, mainly because, I think, he simply is not the kind of person who tends to be critical of others. He gave some helpful insights into why Henri was not much respected by some of his fellow priests".

Interview with Jutta Ayer

File consists of interview with Jutta Ayer interviewed by Gabrielle Earnshaw at the office of the Henri Nouwen Society. Ayer is a retired Chaplain from St. Andrew's Episcopal Church (Marblehead, MA). Ayer first met Nouwen at an 1983 lecture at Cambridge and subsequently became his student at Harvard and remained his close friend until his death in 1996. Ayer recounts experiences with Nouwen at Harvard, L'Arche Trolsy (France) and L'Arche Daybreak (Richmond Hill). Themes present in Ayer's interview include the Second World War, Jewish persecution, marital separation, the relationship between Catholics and Protestants, performing the Eucharist, the mother figure, rejection, the role of women in the Catholic church and Nouwen's sexuality. The interview has been transcribed and is available electronically and in hard copy.

Interview with Bob Buford

File consists of an interview with Bob Buford interviewed by Joe Vorstermans at the Leadership Network Offices (Dallas, TX). Buford lives in Dallas, TX and is the chairman of The Buford Foundation which holds wilderness camps for troubled youth. Buford was introduced to Nouwen through Malcolm Street of Elderly Care Inc (Fortworth, TX). Buford recounts experiences with Nouwen at the Foundation Conference (Toronto, ON) and The Gathering (Mexico) and through his subsequent work 'Mornings with Henri Nouwen'. Themes present in Buford's interview include 'Half Time', 'Finishing Well', Thomas Merton, Peter Drucker, Nouwen's contradictions and Nouwen as tortured. Photocopied pages of Walt Whitman's 'Song of Myself' with annotations and a note from Buford to Joe Vorstermans and a copy of the print created for Peter Drucker's 80th birthday is also in the file. The interview is transcribed and is available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Toon Colen

File consists of an interview with Toon Colen interviewed by Peter Naus in Meerssen, The Netherlands. Colen was a member of a fraternity with Nouwen when they were young school children in The Netherlands. The interview is transcribed and available electronically or in hard copy. All transcriptions and audio recordings are only in Dutch. Brief English notes from interviewer are available in the file; they include: "Toon was a member of the 'dispuut' (fraternity) Henri belonged to as a student. He also organized trips to Israel and Greece with Henri during their time at university. Toon provided interesting information about these trips. He stayed in touch with Henri, although the connection was not as firm in recent years. He gave a very sensitive description of Henri's more problematic side and made some intriguing suggestions regarding the difference in impact of Henri's publications in Holland as compared to North America." There is a letter in the file from Colen to Joe Vorstermans regarding the return of photographs of Nouwen in Israel in the 1950s. File also includes photographs from Toon Colen of Peter Naus's trip to Ireland from June 2004.

Interview with Kevin Dwyer and Alvarro Carrasco

File consists of an interview with Kevin Dwyer and Alvarro Carrasco interviewed by Joe Vorstermans and Sue Mosteller in Oakland, CA. Dwyer works for an insurance company and Carrasco is an engineer. Dwyer and Carrasco met Nouwen through Michael Harank at Bethany House (Oakland, CA) and developed a lifelong friendship. The interview is in two parts; solely Dwyer and then Dwyer and Carrasco. Dwyer and Carrasco remember Nouwen performing Mass and celebrating the Eucharist, visiting at Holy Redeemer and their retreat weekend together with Harank. Themes present in the interview include grandparents, Jesuits, sexuality, Mother Theresa, birth control, homosexuality and religion, The Croation Volunteers, intimacy, coming out, Nouwen's sexuality and Nouwen's hands. There is a printed email in the file from Kevin Dwyer to Joe Vorstermans regarding Dwyer and Carrasco being interviewed together. The interview is transcribed and is available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Albert Lewis

File consists of an interview with Albert Lewis interviewed by Sue Mosteller at Lewis' home in Grand Rapids, MI. Lewis is a retired Rabbi with a congregation in Traverse City, MI. Nouwen acted as Lewis' spiritual director during a visit to L'Arche Daybreak (Richmond Hill, ON) and they subsequently developed a lifelong friendship. Themes present in Lewis' interview include Judaism, education, racial issues, grandparents, community, aging and Nouwen's death. The interview is transcribed and is available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Shirley Lewis

File consists of an interview with Shirley Lewis interviewed by Joe Vorstermans in Lewis' home. Lewis is a college professor in humanities and education at. Nouwen was Lewis' spiritual director during a visit to L'Arche Daybreak (Richmond Hill, ON) and subsequently became lifelong friends. Themes present in Lewis' interview include music, illness, death, spirituality, the father figure, Nouwen's death, Nouwen's legacy and grandparents. The interview is transcribed and is available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Malcolm Street

File consists of an interview with Malcolm Street interviewed by Joe Vorstermans at Street's home in Fort Worth, TX. Street first met Nouwen through the Church of the Saviour (Washington, DC) and subsequently helped him fundraise for the Dayspring Chapel at L'Arche Daybreak (Richmond Hill, ON) through speaking engagements at the First Presbyterian Church (Fort Worth) and other events. Themes present in Street's interview include the John Dafore Center (San Antonio, TX), depression, marital problems, the Ministry of Money, the Eucharist, The Gathering (Mexico), community, brokenness and Nouwen's legacy. The print in the file is a close up photo of Street from the shoulders up in a suit and tie. The interview is transcribed and available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Sally Tucker

File consists of an interview with Sally Tucker interviewed by Kathy Christie in Richmond Hill, ON. Tucker is a receptionist in Richmond Hill, ON. Tucker met Nouwen through Kathy Brunner and worked as his part time receptionist. Tucker recalls celebrating birthdays and holidays with Nouwen and her kids. Themes present in Tucker's interview include alcoholism, death, the Eucharist, art, grief, loneliness and Vincent van Gogh. The print is of Tucker and Nouwen sitting together, Nouwen is on a couch with his arm around Tucker and Tucker is in a chair beside Nouwen with her arm around him. Nouwen is wearing a blue and white sweater over a dress shirt with blue pants; there are balloons and flowers in the background. The interview is transcribed and is available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Virginia Birch

File consists of an interview with Virginia (Ginny) Birch (nee Hall) interviewed by Joe Vorstermans at the Henri Nouwen Society offices (Richmond Hill, ON). Birch lives in Bernardsville, NJ and acted as Nouwen's administrative assistant for the final six months of his 1996 sabbatical year. Birch recounts experiences with Nouwen including writing 'Bread for the Journey', typing his personal journals, performing Eucharist, Fruits of the Spirit and meeting his many friends. Birch remembers Nouwen for his honesty, impatience, diligent letter writing and the commitment he demanded of her as his assistant. Themes present in Birch's interview include marital problems, loneliness, learning to stand up for oneself and the exclusivity of the Catholic faith in terms of communion. A copy of a handwritten note from Birch to Joe Vorstermans regarding a poem Nouwen wrote to Birch is also found in the file. The interview is transcribed and is available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Tim Bruner

File consists of an interview with Tim Bruner interviewed by Gabrielle Earnshaw at the Henri Nouwen Archives and Research Collection at St. Michael's College (Richmond Hill, ON). Bruner lives in Bloomington, IN and is an eighteen year old student. Bruner met Nouwen as a toddler living at L'Arche Daybreak. Most of Bruner's early life was spent with Nouwen including Thanksgiving dinners, Easter Mass, First Communion and vacations to Cape Cod and Holland. Nouwen helped Bruner grieve for his father, John O'Brien, creating a book of memories and celebrating anniversaries and Father's Day. Themes present in Bruner's interview include the father figure, death, grief, role model, belovedness, fruitfulness, Nouwen's funeral and Nouwen's legacy. The interview is transcribed and is available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Father James T. Burtchaell CSC

File consists of an interview with Father James T. Burtchaell CSC interviewed by Joe Vorstermans at Casa Santa Cruz (Phoenix, AZ). Burtchaell is a Catholic Priest and Theology professor at Casa Santa Cruz. Burtchaell was a colleague of Nouwen's at Notre Dame (Notre Dame, IN). Burtchaell recounts Nouwen performing Mass at Dillion Hall Chapel at Notre Dame, speaking and preaching and visiting Burtchaell at Southdown (Aurora, ON), a therapeutic facility for members of religious communities. Themes present in Burtchaell's interview include Holy Cross Priests, alcoholism, The Menninger Foundation, the departments of Theology and Psychology at Notre Dame, Nouwen as incandescent and Nouwen and academia. The file also includes a letter from Burtchaell to Joe Vorstermans about his interview experience; it includes a passage Burtchaell wrote about Nouwen after his death. The interview has been transcribed and is available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Mary Carney

File consists of an interview with Mary Carney interviewed by Joe Vorstermans at the Henri Nouwen Society offices (Richmond Hill, ON). Carney is a hospice nurse in Hamden, CT. Carney met Nouwen when he was one of her supervisors in a Clinical Pastoral Course at Yale Divinity School. Carney remembers Nouwen performing Mass at the Yale Divinity School chapel, caring for Adam Arnett at L'Arche Daybreak (Richmond Hill, ON), assisting in her grief, offering advice, as an intent listener and the influence he had on her prayer life. Themes present in Carney's interview include nursing, death and Yushi Nomura. The interview is transcribed and is available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Bob Durback

File consists of an interview with Bob Durback interviewed by Sue Mosteller at Durback's home in Cleveland, OH. Durback is a former monk and retired mail carrier. Durback's first experience with Nouwen was through articles in the National Catholic Reporter and 'With Open Hands'; Durback subsequently met Nouwen at the Genesee Abbey (Piffard, NY) and developed a lifelong friendship with him. Durback recounts visiting Nouwen at Yale, watching him perform the Eucharist and lecture at Yale and celebrating the anniversary of his ordination. Themes present in Durback's interview include failure, Trappist monks, Thomas Merton, prayer life, death, spiritual formation, John Eudes Bamberger, Vincent van Gogh, writing and his publications 'Seeds of Hope', 'Henri Nouwen: In my Own Words' and 'A Retreat with Henri Nouwen'. The interview has been transcribed and is available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Margaret Farley

File consists of an interview with Margaret Farley interviewed by Michael Christensen in Farley's office at Yale Divinity School (New Haven, CT). Farley lives in Guilford, CT and teaches at Yale Divinity School. Farley joined the faculty at Yale Divinity School the same year as Nouwen, 1971. Farley remembers Nouwen performing Mass, inclusive liturgy and the Eucharist and supporting students involved in activism. Themes present in Farley's interview include racial issues, Detroit riots, the role of women in the Catholic Church, Nouwen's relationship with academic colleagues, Nouwen's tenure at Yale, Nouwen as a spiritual genius and Nouwen's legacy. The interview is transcribed and available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with John Guido

File consists of an interview with John Guido interviewed by Gabrielle Earnshaw at the Henri Nouwen Archives and Research Collection (Toronto, ON). Guido is the regional coordinator for L'Arche Ontario. Guido met Nouwen at a Faith and Sharing retreat at Catholic University (Washington, DC) in 1985 and subsequently lived with him at L'Arche Daybreak (Richmond Hill, ON). Guido remembers celebrating Easter with Nouwen, Nouwen with Adam Arnett, Nouwen driving, Nouwen's gestures and Nouwen's support to the assistants and core members of L'Arche Daybreak. Themes present in Guido's interview include charity, cancer, death, mutuality, Southdown (Aurora, ON), sexuality, Nouwen's burial, funeral and legacy. The interview is transcribed and is available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Judith Kennedy

File consists of an interview with Judith Kennedy interviewed by Kathy Christie at the Gathering Place (Toronto, ON). Kennedy is a former actress and model and founder of Parents in Transition, a self help group for parents parenting troubled teens in Toronto, ON. Kennedy met Nouwen when he counseled her son, Michael Kennedy, and subsequently assisted her entire family when Michael died. Kennedy and her husband, Jim Kennedy, also helped to establish Dayspring at L'Arche Daybreak (Richmond Hill, ON). Themes present in Kennedy's interview include gardening, traveling, music, suicide, Vincent van Gogh, Nouwen's gestures and introduction to the Catholic faith. The interview is transcribed and is available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Sjeng Kremers

File consists of an interview with Sjeng Kremers interviewed by Peter Naus in The Netherlands. Kremers is a retired teacher in The Netherlands who had formerly taught Nouwen. The interview is transcribed and is available electronically and in hard copy. All transcriptions and audio recordings are in Dutch. Brief English comments from the interviewer are found in the file. They include: "I had chosen Sjeng because he directed some projects Henri was involved in as a student. I also hoped he would be able to provide a bit of a description of the Psychology program at the University of Nijmegen that was in place when Henri was a student and Sjeng a member of the faculty. I was not disappointed in my expectations. I believe Sjeng provided some valuable information about qualities of Henri that are relatively unknown".

Interview with Wendy Lywood

File consists of an interview with Wendy Lynwood interviewed by Gabrielle Earnshaw at Wycliffe College at the University of Toronto (Toronto, ON). Lynwood lives and works as an assistant at L'Arche Daybreak (Richmond Hill, ON) and teaches a course in Parish Leadership in the Ministry at Wycliffe College. Lynwood met Nouwen when she joined the L'Arche Daybreak community in 1992. Lynwood recalls Nouwen's relationship with children and core members, grief counselling for Connie Ellis and events at Dayspring chapel at L'Arche Daybreak. Themes present in Lynwood's interview include illness, FISH, community, the Eucharist, depression, Nouwen's legacy and the role of women in the church. The interview is transcribed and is available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Francis Martin

File consists of an interview with Francis Martin interviewed by Errol Stein (location unknown). Martin is a social worker living in Toronto, ON. Martin met Nouwen through Nathan Ball and subsequently developed a friendship with him. Martin recalls traveling to Algonquin Park (Algonquin Park, ON) with Nouwen and Nouwen's relationship with Nathan Ball. Themes present in Martin's interview include loneliness, Mennonite culture, the mother figure, the father figure, siblings, music, Nouwen as celebrity, Nouwen's grave and brokenness. The interview is transcribed and is available electronically or in hard copy.

Interview with Reverend Peter Ruggere

File consists of an interview with Reverend Peter Ruggere interviewed by Joe Vorstermans at Ruggere's office in San Diego, CA. Ruggere lives in San Ysidro, CA and is a Catholic Priest and the Mission Director for the Archdiocese of San Diego, CA. Ruggere met Nouwen when Nouwen traveled through Peru and Bolivia in 1981-82. Ruggere recalls discussing Dutch Catholicism with Nouwen, Nouwen's difficulty learning Spanish and performing Mass and Nouwen's interaction with the residents of Peru. Themes present in Ruggere's interview include Maryknoll priests, South America, Social Activism, Fidel Castro, 'Gracias!', language and Gustavo Gutierrez. Ruggere's business card is in the file. The interview is transcribed and available electronically on in hard copy.

Interview with Errol Stein

File consists of an interview with Errol Stein interviewed by Sue Mosteller at the Greenhouse Loft, L'Arche Daybreak (Richmond Hill, ON). Stein is a retired insurance broker living in Toronto, ON. Stein first saw Nouwen on television as a guest on the 'Hour of Power' with Robert Schuler and was inspired to visit him at L'Arche Daybreak; Stein subsequently became involved with the community. Themes present in Stein's interview include abuse, South African Apartheid, education, racial issues, Gordie Henry, Nouwen's death and Nouwen's legacy. The file includes a letter to Stein from Joe Vorstermans thanking him for his participation and sending him copies of the audio cassettes for Stein's records.

Interview with Jack Stroh

File consists of an interview with Jack Stroh interviewed by Sue Mosteller at the Green House Loft, L'Arche Daybreak (Richmond Hill, ON). Stroh is a retired lawyer and lives in Erie, PA. Stroh met Nouwen through his wife, Sue Stroh president of the L'Arche Erie (Erie, PA); Nouwen counseled Stroh from 1991-96 and they become friends. Themes present in Stroh's interview include transitions, sports, alcoholism, introduction to the Catholic faith, Bill van Buren and praying with Nouwen. The interview is transcribed and 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 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 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".

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