October 16, 2025

Henri’s Bookshelf | Peacework

32 minutes

In this insightful episode of Henri's Bookshelf, host Wendy VanderWal Martin is joined by her daughter Renate Carson to dive deep into Henri Nouwen's powerful work Peacework. The episode explores how Nouwen’s teachings on peacemaking—rooted in prayer, resistance, and community—remain relevant in today's divided world. Renate, a theology and culture student at St. Stephen University, shares her personal journey of connecting with Henri's ideas and how they resonate with her generation's search for meaning in a fractured society.

From her own reflections on peacemaking, including the role of prayer in daily life and how small acts of hospitality, like cooking with intention, can affirm life and resist harmful systems, Renate brings a fresh perspective to the timeless wisdom of Henri Nouwen. The conversation also touches on the complexities of interfaith relationships, especially in a time of polarization, and how living out one's vocation as a peacemaker requires both courage and humility.

This episode challenges listeners to rethink what it means to be a peacemaker in a world that often feels increasingly divided. Henri’s call to "move out of the house of fear toward the house of love" is a message that resonates now more than ever. Whether you're familiar with Henri Nouwen’s work or encountering it for the first time, this episode will inspire you to consider how prayer, resistance, and community can shape your own path to peace.

Tune in to discover how simple yet profound actions can contribute to a world of healing and reconciliation.

Check out St. Stephen's University: https://www.ssu.ca/

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Book Discussed:

Peacework

https://amzn.to/3hGh1w2 (US)

https://amzn.to/2zHjnd3 (Canada)

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