Episode Details

16: Laura Fabrycky discusses Keys to Bonhoeffer’s Haus

Oct 19, 2021

Looking for a dose of moral clarity? In this episode Laura Fabrycky joins us on the front porch to talk about her experience as a guide in Berlin’s Bonhoeffer Haus, during the tumultuous years following the 2016 US presidential election. Laura invites us to consider how Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s life serves as a model for moral decision-making and ethical thinking.

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Laura
Front Porch Book Club
16: Laura Fabrycky discusses Keys to Bonhoeffer's Haus
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On The Porch

Laura Fabrycky,
Author
Linda Culbertson, Nancy Shank

Get the Book

Keys to Bonhoeffer’s Haus: Exploring the World and Wisdom of Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Other Links

Bonhoeffer Haus
German version of the book
Laura’s poetry book: Give Me the Word: Advent and Other Poems, 2000 – 2015
Laura's website

Episode Notes

16: Laura Fabrycky discusses Keys to Bonhoeffer’s Haus

We so enjoyed our time with Laura Fabrycky! As the "trailing spouse" of an American diplomat stationed in Berlin, Germany, Laura discovered the Bonhoeffer Haus as a visitor and, after many repeat visits, became a guide, herself. She tells us about the encouragement she received learning about Dietrich Bonhoeffer, his life, and his family. Linda said her favorite part of the book was learning about Bonhoeffer's grandmother--a woman of immense moral clarity. She also loves how Nancy's play portrays the women in Bonhoeffer's life. Laura tells us she emphasized the importance to not idolize or idealize Bonhoeffer because it is a temptation she faces! She believes Bonhoeffer is an inspiration for how to live with moral clarity and the importance of living in community. Laura describes that when the Bonhoeffer Haus was dedicated 1987, Bonhoeffer's best friend Eberhard Bethge described the house as a memorial to the importance of "weak centers," where human relationships, not political power, can change the world. Laura told us she has been more intentional about learning about the issues of justice in her community, recognizing none of us are morally exempt. This leads us into a discussion of what national reconciliation looks like. Laura reinforces that there is life and strength through confessing our past sins. A great discussion, but don't worry, we share some joyous laughter, too!