Precisely because of our attitude to the state, the conversation here must be completely honest, for the sake of Jesus Christ and the ecumenical cause. We must make it clear–fearful as it is–that the time is very near when we shall have to decide between National Socialism and Christianity. It may be fearfully hard and difficult for us all, but we must get right to the root of things, with open Christian speaking and no diplomacy. And in prayer together we will find the way. I feel that a resolution ought to be framed–all evasion is useless. And if the world alliance in Germany is then dissolved–well and good, at least we will have borne witness that we were at fault. Better that than to go on vegetating in this untruthful way.Only complete truth and truthfulness will help us now.
–Dietrich Bonhoeffer as quoted in No Rusty Swords, my emphasis
On this day in 1945, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, then aged 39, a pastor, theologian and opponent of Hitler was murdered by the Nazis following a drumhead court-martial, without witnesses, record of proceedings, or defence. pic.twitter.com/WISJvwdNsW
— Timothy Jones (@TimJonesStaffs) April 9, 2019