Following the inaugural Henri Nouwen Lectureship, the Henri Nouwen Society, in partnership with the Oblate School of Theology, is pleased to announce an Academic Symposium dedicated to the life, work, and enduring influence of Henri Nouwen, a profound thinker and writer whose contributions to theology, spirituality, and pastoral care have inspired countless individuals and communities. This symposium aims to bring together scholars and practitioners to explore and critically engage with Nouwen’s rich body of work.

Call for Papers: We invite scholars from diverse disciplines, including theology, psychology, philosophy, and religious studies, to submit abstracts for presentations that delve into various aspects of Henri Nouwen’s thought and impact. Potential topics include, but are not limited to:

• Spiritual Formation and Personal Transformation: Examining Nouwen’s insights into spiritual growth and the transformative power of vulnerability and compassion.

• Theological Reflections: Analyzing Nouwen’s theological contributions and their implications for contemporary Christian thought. • Pastoral Care and Community Building: Exploring Nouwen’s approach to pastoral care, community, and the concept of “belovedness.” • Psychological and Emotional Dimensions: Investigating the intersection of Nouwen’s work with modern psychological understanding and emotional well-being.

• Comparative Studies: Comparing Nouwen’s ideas with those of other spiritual or theological thinkers, both historical and contemporary.

• Practical Applications: Assessing how Nouwen’s teachings can be applied in various practical settings, including counseling, education, and community work. Submission Guidelines:

• Abstract Submission: Please submit a 300-word abstract outlining your proposed paper, including your research question, methodology, and key arguments.

• Full Paper: Upon acceptance, a full paper (6,000-8,000 words) will be required by August 1, 2025.

• Format: Abstracts and papers should be submitted in Word format and include your name, affiliation, and contact information. Review Process: All submissions will undergo a peer-review process to ensure scholarly rigor and relevance.

Notifications of acceptance will be sent by email on February 15, 2025. Registration: Details regarding registration, including fees and deadlines, will be provided upon acceptance of your abstract. Contact Information: For questions or further information, please contact: Dr. Wendy VanderWal Martin, wvanderwalmartin@henrinouwen.org Please pass on this information to your colleagues, students and others with interests in the study of spirituality. We look forward to receiving your submissions and engaging in meaningful dialogue about the transformative legacy of Henri Nouwen.