Journeying with Bonhoeffer: Six Steps on the Path of Discipleship

Join the Dean of Melbourne, Dr. Andreas Loewe, and academic and poet Dr. Katherine Firth for six weekly reflections as we journey through what it means to be faithful followers of Jesus today in Journeying with Bonhoeffer: Six Steps on the Path of Discipleship.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer is a theologian whose life and work resonate profoundly in our times. He transcended barriers of race, denomination, and language, dedicating his life to the pursuit of truth and justice. His courageous efforts included leading an underground seminary and participating in the resistance against the Nazi regime, actions that ultimately led to his imprisonment, internment in concentration camps, and execution. Bonhoeffer's inspiring writings continue to challenge and inspire believers to consider the true essence of discipleship and the practical outworking of their faith.

In 2020, the world commemorated the 75th anniversary of Bonhoeffer's martyrdom, a poignant reminder of his enduring legacy. The reflections in Journeying with Bonhoeffer, initially delivered as Dean Andreas' Lent Addresses in 2019, delve into the themes of discipleship through the lens of Bonhoeffer's profound theological insights. These reflections are grounded in the Gospel of Luke and Bonhoeffer's seminal work, The Cost of Discipleship, which calls Christians to a radical and authentic following of Christ.

Dr. Katherine Firth contributes significantly to this journey with her compelling new biography of Bonhoeffer, first presented at St James' King Street in Sydney. Her work offers fresh perspectives on Bonhoeffer's life, capturing the depth of his spiritual journey, his political convictions, and his poetic expressions. Firth's translations of Bonhoeffer's poems and prayers reveal the rich interplay of spirituality, politics, and literary craft in his writings, providing readers with a deeper understanding of his thoughts and experiences.

Journeying with Bonhoeffer invites participants to explore six steps on the path of discipleship, each reflection encouraging a deeper engagement with Bonhoeffer's teachings and the Gospel. The series is designed to foster contemplation, discussion, and practical application, making it a valuable resource for individuals and groups seeking to deepen their faith and commitment to following Jesus in today's complex world.

Through this journey, Loewe and Firth offer a thoughtful and enriching exploration of what it means to live as faithful disciples of Christ. By engaging with Bonhoeffer's life and writings, participants are encouraged to confront the challenges of their own faith journeys, inspired by Bonhoeffer's example of courage, integrity, and unwavering devotion to God's call. Journeying with Bonhoeffer is more than a series of reflections; it is an invitation to transform one's understanding of discipleship and to live out that calling with renewed purpose and conviction.