The Road to Peace: Writings on Peace and Justice

Throughout his life Henri Nouwen stressed the connection between intimacy with Christ and solidarity with a wounded world. From his early support for the civil rights movement, through his engagement in the cause of peace and his life with the handicapped members of the L'Arche community, Nouwen was always engaged with the social dimensions of the gospel.

In gathering Nouwen's writings on peace and social justice, editor John Dear amplifies this crucial element of Nouwen's message about the call of Christian discipleship. At the same time, Nouwen issues a call to activists to be peacemakers in the fullest sense: to root their witness in prayer, joy, and a spirit of love. Included are a previously unpublished essay on peacemaking; stories of the March on Selma and the funeral of Martin Luther King; reflections on the legacies of Oscar Romero and Thomas Merton; and a moving talk on compassion in the time of AIDS.

For all those who have read and treasured the life and work of Henri Nouwen, The Road to Peace is an inspiration, and a challenge to live our Christian lives with both love and action.