Henri Nouwen, Clowning in Rome Quotes

A collection of quotes by Henri Nouwen, Clowning in Rome.

Henri Nouwen was a Dutch Catholic priest, theologian, and writer known for his profound spiritual insights and teachings. Born on January 24, 1932, in Nijkerk, Netherlands, Nouwen dedicated his life to serving others and exploring the depths of the human soul. His book "Clowning in Rome" was published in 1979 and delves into his experiences of encountering God's love and grace in unexpected places, particularly during a visit to the Circus Maximus in Rome. Nouwen's writings continue to inspire and guide countless individuals in their spiritual journeys. He passed away on September 21, 1996.

To pray, I think, does not mean to think about God in contrast to thinking about other things, or to spend time with God instead of spending time with other people. Rather, it means to think and live in the presence of God. As soon as we begin to divide our thoughts about God and thoughts about people and events, we remove God from our daily life and put him into a pious little niche where we can think pious thoughts and experience pious feelings. ... Although it is important and even indispensable for the spiritual life to set apart time for God and God alone, prayer can only become unceasing prayer when all our thoughts -- beautiful or ugly, high or low, proud or shameful, sorrowful or joyful -- can be thought in the presence of God. ... Thus, converting our unceasing thinking into unceasing prayer moves us from a self-centred monologue to a God-centred dialogue.

Henri Nouwen, Clowning in Rome

Prayer