Upon meeting journalist, Fred Bratman, Henri Nouwen sensed that beneath Brat- man’s facade of cynicism and sarcasm, there was a beautiful heart – one that longed to give, create, and live a fruitful life. Nouwen longed to help his friend understand the power of the Christian faith. This book is the result of that attempt.

“Self-rejection is the greatest enemy of the spiritual life because it contradicts the sacred voice that calls us the Beloved.”

This book was written as a very personal letter to a dear friend. In it, Nouwen takes time to explain in depth exactly what it means to be beloved by God, how we can be sure of God’s love, and why we should live as beloved children of God. Tragically, it did not convince his friend. But it has had a powerful impact on millions of Christians.

Henri Nouwen, a Catholic priest, was a teacher at Harvard, Yale, and Notre Dame. Well versed in many subjects, he was one of the great spiritual writers of our day.