More About this Book

This book is the published journal of Nouwen’s six-month sojourn in Bolivia and Peru to explore a missionary vocation with the Maryknoll fathers.  He went to Bolivia to study Spanish from October-December 1981 and then moved to a barrio in Lima Peru, for the first three months of 1982.  The journal documents Nouwen’s efforts to answer the question: “Does God call me to live and work in Latin America in the years to come?” It is an intensely personal account as well as a vital commentary on the how the church ought to be present in the world.

Themes: Identity, Discernment, Vocation, Liberation Theology, Missionary work, Ministry, Presence of God, the Church, Obedience, Listening, Letter Writing, Contemplation, Prayer, God, Children, Depression, Suffering, Social Justice, Henri Nouwen

Harper & Row, 1983

Praise for "Gracias!"

"If every missions major at every Christian college in America read this book before going on a "mission"--this world, and the kingdom of God--would be a much better place."
Joy
"Such humility and grace, to be taught by the poor--it should be required reading. Humbling and beautiful."
Matteson
"Hands down one of the best things I’ve read in a long time. Transformational. Nouwen gives words to living among the poor that I have only ever vaguely grasped at."
Emma

Help share Nouwen’s spiritual vision

When you give to the Henri Nouwen Society, you join us in offering inspiration, comfort, and hope to people around the world. Thank you for your generosity and partnership!

Donate Today