Sabbatical Journey: The Diary of his Final Year was the last book written by Henri Nouwen. It's a chronicle of his sabbatical year which was intended to provide a restful time for prayer, writing and solitude. In actuality it became the most active period in Nouwen's life. Although he always made time for prayers and writing, there was little resolve for solitude; either people sought him or he invited their company. Not a week went by that he wasn't on a plane or train visiting family and friends, attending meetings and conferences, performing sacramental and ceremonial rites, always moving at a space age pace.

Nouwen's diary reads like a travel essay. There are several spiritual nuggets to be found on his non-travel days, but most entries are of his observations and experiences with an accompanying commentary. Unlike travel writers, he never describes a meal by describing the food; instead he gives an account of the dinner conversation, the topics, the mood, the intensity, and the background of every dinner guest.
Travel stories are peopled with diverse characters that reflect different cultures and backgrounds. Nouwen offers his readers a personal glimpse of over 600 people; all sparkle with individual personality and purpose.