It is perhaps this humility and open-mindedness that help him to touch so many different people of diverse religious, social, intellectual, and cultural backgrounds. Jean is honest; he practices what he preaches but he does not impose himself on others. He encourages inner reflection and introspection, but also good humour and joie de vivre. He is not really what you would call an unequalled orator, but he captivates and touches his audience.

Whether in his books, during conferences, on radio or TV broadcasts - such as the Massey Lectures, at prayer in Lourdes before Pope John Paul II and a crowd of pilgrims, or at a small retreat somewhere on the globe, his message remains strong. Jean Vanier has received many recognitions and awards for his work, including the French Legion of Honour, the Companion of the Order of Canada, the 2001 Rabbi Gunther Plaut Humanitarian Award, and the 2006 Chicago Catholic Theological Union “Blessed are the Peacemakers” Award.