Inspired by the philosophy of Henri Nouwen, the workshop/seminar presents an inspiring and life-transforming introduction to the ultimate mystery of human existence.

What is the meaning of death? How can we see it as an act of fulfillment rather than an inevitable fate? Can our death be fruitful, a profoundly human gift to those we love? These are some of the questions that Henri Nouwen addressed in his later writings. In the years since his own sudden death in 1996, Nouwen’s influence as a spiritual mentor and companion has continued to grow. His writings on prayer, ministry, and the spiritual life have affected countless people of all faiths. But in this workshop/seminar, and largely through Nouwen’s own words, Michelle O’Rourke concentrates on his reflections on death and dying – a theme that stands out as one of the unifying threads in all of his books, a synthesis that may turn out to be among his most important contributions.

Michelle has worked as a Registered Nurse for thirty years, primarily in critical care and emergency. While always maintaining a nursing position, Michelle has been involved in her parish and diocese in many areas, spending 14 years as a Lay Pastoral Minister in Chatham (Ontario). Her role focused primarily on liturgy, music, catechetics and pastoral care.

In 2008 she graduated from Assumption University in Windsor with a Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry. Her thesis reflected her interest in spirituality and palliative care, and has recently been published by Orbis Books as Befriending Death: Henri Nouwen and a Spirituality of Dying. She presently works in the ER at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance, and for the Diocese of London as a Lay Ecclesial Ministry Specialist, supporting the lay ministers, coordinators of youth ministry and parish nurses of the diocese.

Please register before 15 October 2010 by printing out the brochure, completing the registration form and mailing it with your registration fee to:

Befriending Death Seminar/Workshop
The Church of St John the Evangelist
154 Somerset St West
Ottawa, ON K2P 0H8