Description
Book SynopsisIn Recovering the Ecumenical Bonhoeffer, Javier A. Garcia explores the possibilities for Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s theology to revitalize interest in the ecumenical movement and Christian unity today. Although many commentators have lamented the waning interest in the ecumenical movement since the 1960s, the celebration of the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation in 2017, coupled with recent in-roads such as the ecumenical efforts of Pope Francis, have opened new possibilities for the ecumenical project. For this purpose, Garcia presents Bonhoeffer as a helpful model for contemporary ecumenical dialogue. He finds important points of convergence between Bonhoeffer and Calvin, thereby establishing potential areas of rapprochement between the Lutheran and Reformed traditions. Beyond examining the state of ecumenism and unfolding the ecumenical promise of Bonhoeffer’s thought, Garcia offers some concluding thoughts on the future of ecumenical engagement in a secular age. Altogether, he proposes a recovery of the ecumenical Bonhoeffer for envisioning new possibilities for church unity in our day.
Trade ReviewBonhoeffer’s commitment to the ecumenical church, both in his life and thinking, is now drawing renewed interest from theologians around the world. Here is much-needed and impressive scholarship, a major resource for that interest and for all who long for the one Christ to take visible shape in his community. -- Keith W. Clements, Editor of London, 1933-35, Dietrich Bonhoeffer Works 13 (2007)
This is a timely and important contribution to our understanding of Bonhoeffer's commitment and challenge to the ecumenical movement in its formative years. By focussing on the way in which Bonhoeffer as a Lutheran positively engaged the Reformed tradition, it provides an ecumenical case study that is both original and persuasive. I highly comment it both for its substance and its style. -- John W. de Gruchy, Stellenbosch University
Table of ContentsIntroduction Chapter 1: Bonhoeffer, Lutheranism, and the Reformed Tradition Chapter 2: Jesus Christ Chapter 3: The Holy Spirit and the Community Chapter 4: Ethics: The Law and Christian Freedom Chapter 5: Church and the World Chapter 6: The Church and the Churches Conclusion: Paths for Ecumenism in a Secular Age
