Henri Nouwen’s book The Wounded Healer: Ministry In Contemporary Society provides a valuable introspective approach to providing pastoral care and serving in Christian leadership in contemporary society. Nouwen provides a great overview of the wounds and suffering that plagues modern society, the current generation, individual people, and the Christian ministers who are called to serve those in need. (Nouwen, 3) In describing the challenges of modern society, Nouwen asserts that today’s society: views the world differently than previous generations, has a fluid set of ideologies that often change over time, and can become paralyzed if they lose their source of creativity. (Nouwen, 12-17) Nouwen also describes today’s generation as being: (i) inward and introspective, (ii) anti-authority, and (iii) unhappy with their options in society and thus given to depression or unpredictability. (Nouwen, 31-40)
I found Nouwen’s suggestions for ministering to people in the current …show more content…
I believe Nouwen’s assertion that ministers are wounded and in need of healing before they can minister to others is insightful and spot on. (Nouwen, 88) Nouwen points to both personal loneliness and professional loneliness as common causes of ministers being wounded and needing healing before they can effectively minister to others. (Nouwen, 89-93) I love the way Nouwen summarizes the call of today’s ministers in the face of these types of wounds, stating: “They are called to be the wounded healer, the ones who must not only look after their own wounds, but at the same time be prepared to heal the wounds of others.” (Nouwen, 88) He also states: “it is their task to make visible the first vestiges of liberation for others.” (Nouwen, 88) I wholeheartedly agree with Nouwen’s sentiments in each of these quotes and think they accurately summarize the attitude I will take toward practicing ministry and providing pastoral
I found Nouwen’s suggestions for ministering to people in the current …show more content…
I believe Nouwen’s assertion that ministers are wounded and in need of healing before they can minister to others is insightful and spot on. (Nouwen, 88) Nouwen points to both personal loneliness and professional loneliness as common causes of ministers being wounded and needing healing before they can effectively minister to others. (Nouwen, 89-93) I love the way Nouwen summarizes the call of today’s ministers in the face of these types of wounds, stating: “They are called to be the wounded healer, the ones who must not only look after their own wounds, but at the same time be prepared to heal the wounds of others.” (Nouwen, 88) He also states: “it is their task to make visible the first vestiges of liberation for others.” (Nouwen, 88) I wholeheartedly agree with Nouwen’s sentiments in each of these quotes and think they accurately summarize the attitude I will take toward practicing ministry and providing pastoral