On the Lived Theology Reading List: I Have Come a Long Way


I Have Come a Long Way, John W. de GruchyA Memoir

Renowned South African theologian John de Gruchy inspires many through his roles as minister, professor, researcher, and writer. In the newly published I Have Come a Long Way, he reflects on a life lived well, tracing his Viking ancestry through his work as an ecumenical activist for the South African Council of Churches to the present. Rated an A research scholar by the National Research Foundation, De Gruchy specializes in the theology of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, whose thought undoubtedly influenced the anti-apartheid leader’s own work in local reconciliation. Weaving this foundational thought throughout the autobiography, de Gruchy narrates an inspirational story still in the making.

De Gruchy reflects:

“If my life and experience is of some interest, it is chiefly so because I have lived through interesting times, in an interesting country, traveled to many interesting places, and been accompanied along the way by interesting folk.”

For more information on the book, click here.

John de Gruchy was the Robert Selby Taylor Professor of Christian Studies at the University of Cape Town before he retired in 2003 and was appointed a Senior Research Scholar at UCT and an Extraordinary Professor at the University of Stellenbosch. He remains active in both institutions, engaged in research, publishing and mentoring. His other publications include Confessions of a Christian Humanist (2006).

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