Henri Jozef Machiel Nouwen was a Dutch Catholic priest, professor, writer, and theologian. Born on January 24, 1932, Nouwen became known for his deep exploration into psychology, pastoral ministry, spirituality, social justice, and community. Over his lifetime, he was deeply influenced by figures like Anton Boisen, Thomas Merton, Rembrandt, Vincent van Gogh, and Jean Vanier.

Nouwen spent nearly two decades teaching at esteemed academic institutions such as the University of Notre Dame, Yale Divinity School, and Harvard Divinity School before dedicating his life to working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities at the L'Arche Daybreak community in Richmond Hill, Ontario.