A helpful guide for those who are caregivers dealing with the daily demands of looking after someone. I have direct experience with this and its rewards and challenges. The role played by Jesus and God is important and though this may put off non religious people I think an open minded person will see the comfort and hope this can bring.

I requested to read this ARC (thank you to NetGalley and InterVarsity Press) because I am a sometimes caregiver for my mother and journeying with my husband through his cancer battle. I also love the works of Henri J. M. Nouwen. The book fulfilled my expectations in Thompson's intertwining of the thoughts of Nouwen with narratives of caregivers.

I was surprised when the main section of the book ended at page 92; however, two appendices include the use of the book on a retreat (A) or with a small group (B). . Don't miss Appendix C which is a treasury of stories. If you are not doing the book or a retreat or in a group, jump to Appendix C for these more fully developed stories and experiences of caregivers. Appendix D includes resources and practices (again, I read through those). Appendix E is a much needed section on Congregational Support for Caregivers -- would that congregational leadership would take note of these! Finally, Appendix E includes print and video resources.

I do believe I will be buying this book upon its publication in August 2022. It is a resource to turn to time and time again.

Practical and spiritual guidance for the caregiver and those who work to support caregivers.

Weaves the work of Henri Nouwen, spiritual master and teacher/author, with stories about caregiving and caregiver scenarios.

Exceptional discussion of the unique challenges of self-care for the caregiver and some pragmatic suggestions.

Precise outlines of retreats for caregivers.

As a nurse, educator and someone who has cared for family members, this offered much for me to appreciate and use in my work. It is infused with references to Jesus and God which might limit its application in some places. Still, I think much of it can be adapted for those who do not practice the Christian faith.

My mother-in-law has been hospitalized six times in the past three months. Perhaps it was not a coincidence that I found myself reading this book, Courage for Caregivers: Sustenance for the Journey in Company with Henri J. M. Nouwen. While I myself am not doing the primary caretaking for my mother-in-law, I found this book touching as I reflected on the role my husband, sister-in-law, and millions of others around the world are undertaking as they physically provide care for others.

I have read many Henri Nouwen books over the years, and always deeply appreciate the wisdom found in the pages of his writings. In Courage for Caregivers, Marjorie J. Thompson has pulled together themes from Nouwen’s writings and applicable quotes to weave into reflections for caregivers. Through this book, the reader will reflect on “the mutuality of caregiving”- that caregiving is not just a one-way relationship. The reader will be invited to name the challenges of caregiving and also the gifts. And finally, the reader will be invited to reflect on self-care and simple spiritual practices that can be used to sustain the caregiver long-term.

This book is a good resource for pastors and other church staff to have on hand, as the second half of the book provides a retreat guide, small group guides, and ideas for how congregations can support caregivers.

Whether providing care for the elderly, disabled children, or others—this book is a valuable resource for all sorts of caregivers.

Courage for Caregivers
by Marjorie J. Thompson
Pub Date: August 16, 2022
Intervarsity Press
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the ARC of this book.
This is a great book to read for encouragement on a draining "job" or as a gift to a caregiver you know.
Drawing on the writings and wisdom of Henri J. M. Nouwen's themes of caregiving, Marjorie J. Thompson offers a vulnerable exploration of caregiving intertwined with both her own many years of intimate caregiving of family members and collected stories of caregivers in varied settings and stages of life. While not shying away from the demanding physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges of caregiving, Courage for Caregivers also celebrates the gifts of caregiving grounded in the belovedness both caregiver and care receiver share in God's eyes.
I highly recommend this book and will be buying it for our library. I see folks coming in daily who are "tired" and need encouragement in this area.
4 stars

This is a sweet and thoughtful book that captures the deep simplicity of the teaching of Henri Nouwen. Ive read all of the writing from his lifetime, and I was always so thankful to have the loving approach he utilized at my fingertips. This book adds to that collection. I felt the book did a good job capturing his work in the context of caregiving, and reminds us that we are all here caring for one another. That was a central tenet of Nouwen's teachings, and it lives on in this book. Im happy to add it to my shelf.

I have been a caregiver for over 25 years. I was refreshed by the insights offered in this book. Truly, the works and insights from Henry Nouwen are a breath of fresh air. It is easy to get bogged down, tired, and worn out in the day-to-day activities and demands required to care for others. The truths shared in this book are a breath of fresh air and a reminder of what a privilege it is to care for others. I have learned the necessity of self-care the hard way and genuinely appreciate that this is addressed. Marjorie shares her own experiences and how her own stories can inspire, challenge, and encourage others. I love that there is a leader’s guide and suggestions for leading others in a group or retreat. What a powerful experience that could be for all involved. I would love to gift this to other caregivers in my circle and see them blessed as a result as well.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.