Bonhoeffer as Youth Worker: A Theological Vision for Discipleship and Life Together

The youth ministry focus of Dietrich Bonhoeffer's life is often forgotten or overlooked, despite his significant work with young people and his numerous papers, sermons, and addresses dedicated to the youth of the church. Youth ministry expert Andy Root emphasizes that this focus is central to Bonhoeffer's story and thought, presenting him as the forefather and model of the growing theological turn in youth ministry. By connecting contemporary youth workers with this epic theologian, Root underscores the depth and importance of youth ministry in the church, illustrating how Bonhoeffer's life and thought continue to impact present-day practice.

"Bonhoeffer as Youth Worker reads like the labor of love that it is, introducing Bonhoeffer as a fellow pastor who shares your passion for young people's journey of faith and your conviction that Christ's church should receive youth without using them," says Kenda Creasy Dean of Princeton Theological Seminary. Andrew Root illuminates Bonhoeffer's timeless power to shape our understanding of both ministry and faith, with Kara Powell of Fuller Youth Institute expressing that Root's work sheds new light on this theological hero. Mark Oestreicher of The Youth Cartel describes the book as a fascinating blend of history, story, and theological articulation, unlike any other youth ministry book.

Andrew Root's compelling exploration of Bonhoeffer's regular interaction with youth and children reveals a significant yet overlooked aspect of his theological formation. Root critiques contemporary technological approaches to youth ministry and promotes a practical-theological 'place-sharing' approach that engages the concrete and lived experiences of youth. As Benjamin T. Conner of Western Theological Seminary notes, this book is an important contribution to both youth ministry and Bonhoeffer scholarship, offering a rewarding and enriching read for those interested in theological youth ministry.