Dying We Live

Book excerpt: A Protestant pastor and a Catholic writer have collaborated with an American, Kathe Kuhn, by compiling the last words of those who, unwilling to condone or to obey injustice under the Nazi terror, were facing execution. Their letters and messages were addressed to their nearest and dearest, in a situation which calls forth the ultimate truth in each person. This collection is neither a mere historical or political record, but a deeply human one, and its effect on the reader, contrary to expectations, is strengthening rather than depressing. The chief debt of gratitude is owed to the recipients of the letters--the widows, children, parents, friends, and relatives of the writers. They have allowed us to make public what to them was exclusively their own, a sacred possession. Not since the time of the martyrs of the early Church, so it seemed to editor Helmut Gollwitzer, had there been such a wealth of testimonials of a faith triumphant in death. Kathe Kuhn (ADD German oomlaute over the 'a' if possible)