Church History

We continue the harrowing journey of Corrie Ten Boom and her sister Betsy as they endure the brutal realities of a concentration camp during World War II. Through starvation, humiliation, and the constant threat of death, the sisters cling to their faith, discovering strength in their shared belief.

Despite the horrific conditions, including fleas, they find ways to nurture hope and community among fellow prisoners, ultimately revealing the profound impact of faith in the darkest of times. Join Lorelee Siemens as we explore the resilience of the human spirit and the lasting legacy of love and forgiveness.

Chapters:

(00:00) Corrie Ten Boom's Family and Initial Imprisonment in the Concentration Camp

(01:05) Enduring Humiliation and Finding Strength in Faith Amidst Harsh Camp Conditions

(02:46) Betsy's Fading Health and the Sisters' Response to Fleas and Filth

(04:21) Thanking God for Fleas and the Transformation of the Barracks Atmosphere

(05:36) Daily Hardships, Underground Bible Studies, and Miraculous Vitamin Drops

(08:09) The Mystery of the Uninspected Barracks and the Fleas as Divine Protection

(10:07) Winter's Cruelty, Betsy's Weakening Health, and a Guard's Unexpected Violence

(12:22) Betsy's Deteriorating Health and Corrie's Fearful Visit to the Camp Hospital

(14:11) The Horrors of the Hospital Ward and the Fleas' Role in Protection Revealed

(15:49) Betsy's Declining Health, Her Vision for a Post-War Home, and a New Medical Inspection

(17:04) Corrie's Prayer to Stay with Betsy and Their Reunion in the Knitting Brigade

(18:42) Prayers for Healing and Hope Amidst the Arrival of Elderly Prisoners

(19:37) Brutal Winter Conditions, Harsh Punishments, and Persistent Hope in Darkness

(20:43) Betsy's Final Days, Her Wish for a Home, and a Guard's Surprising Compassion

(21:53) Betsy's Hospitalization, Her Prophecy of Freedom, and Her Peaceful Death

(23:07) Remembering Betsy's Faith and Lessons on Character, Gratitude, and God's Love

(24:31) God's Continued Work and a Preview of Corrie's Future Forgiveness and Impact

Episode Sponsor:

The church is corrupted https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKFSXQTR.

The church is born https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BGLZ7C1.

The Church Sings https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DL1BTT1X.

Links:

https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens

An Africa mission I recommend: https://globaltrain.org

Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2570126/episodes/18513087

My Bible Reading Plan: https://bible.com/reading-plans/2053/together/78277240/invitation?token=YfuaPBjn98pOXxRD_Fhhow&source=share

If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well:

Courage in the Shadows: The Ten Boom Legacy: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35198283/courage-in-the-shadows-the-ten-boom-legacy

Opening Doors: The Ten Boom Family's Story https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35196887/opening-doors-the-ten-boom-familys-story

The Hidden History of Eugenics and Its Modern Implications: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35159509/the-hidden-history-of-eugenics-and-its-modern-implications

The Unlikely Love Story of Dietrich and Maria: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35189380/the-unlikely-love-story-of-dietrich-and-maria

In this episode, we continue the inspiring story of Corrie Ten Boom, a courageous woman who, alongside her family, transformed their home into a refuge during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands.

Hear how their faith and determination led them to protect those in need, defy oppressive laws, and ultimately endure unimaginable trials.

Discover the profound lessons of courage, the value of every human life, and the unbreakable presence of God even in the darkest times.

Chapters:

(07:05) Even in the shadow of war, laughter still found its way into the home

(08:41) The Gestapo raided the Ten Booms' home on February 28, 1944

(13:57) Corey and Betsy were marched to Ravensbrück concentration camp

Episode Sponsor:

The church is corrupted https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKFSXQTR.

The church is born https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BGLZ7C1.

The Church sings https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DL1BTT1X

Links:

https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens

An Africa mission I recommend: https://globaltrain.org

Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2570126/episodes/18513087

My Bible Reading Plan: https://bible.com/reading-plans/2053/together/78277240/invitation?token=YfuaPBjn98pOXxRD_Fhhow&source=share

If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well:

The History of the Hymns: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns

Opening Doors: The Ten Boom Family's Story https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35196887/opening-doors-the-ten-boom-familys-story

The Hidden History of Eugenics and Its Modern Implications: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35159509/the-hidden-history-of-eugenics-and-its-modern-implications

The Unlikely Love Story of Dietrich and Maria: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35189380/the-unlikely-love-story-of-dietrich-and-maria

In this episode, we embark on a captivating journey through the life of Corrie ten Boom, a remarkable Christian hero whose story is filled with faith, courage, and compassion.

Join host Lorelee Siemens as she recounts Corrie's upbringing in Haarlem, the impact of World War I, and the family's unwavering commitment to hospitality and helping those in need.

This episode lays the groundwork for a multi-part series that will delve deeper into Corrie's extraordinary life and the lessons she learned along the way.

Chapters:

(01:16) Corey Ten Boom was born in Haarlem, Netherlands in 1892

(08:28) The Ten Boom family welcomed Jewish soldiers during World War I

(13:58) The Netherlands remained neutral during World War II despite Nazi invasion

Episode Sponsor:

The church is corrupted https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKFSXQTR.

The church is born https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BGLZ7C1.

The Church sings https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DL1BTT1X

Links:

https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens

An Africa mission I recommend: https://globaltrain.org

Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2570126/episodes/18513087

My Bible Reading Plan: https://bible.com/reading-plans/2053/together/78277240/invitation?token=YfuaPBjn98pOXxRD_Fhhow&source=share

If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well:

The History of the Hymns: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns

The Rise and Fall of Faith in Germany: Bonhoeffer's Story https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35176895/the-rise-and-fall-of-faith-in-germany-bonhoeffers-story

The Hidden History of Eugenics and Its Modern Implications: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35159509/the-hidden-history-of-eugenics-and-its-modern-implications

Faith in the 1920s: Surviving After the Storm: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35141113/faith-in-the-1920-s-surviving-after-the-storm

In this episode, Lorelee Siemens shares the poignant story of Maria and her connection to the renowned theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer during a tumultuous time in Nazi Germany. As Maria grows up amidst the changing landscape of her country, we explore her relationship with Dietrich, a pastor who boldly opposed Hitler.

Their love story unfolds against the backdrop of war, loss, and moral dilemmas, highlighting the cost of faithfulness and the importance of standing for truth in the face of evil.

Chapters:

(01:27) Maria Bonhoeffer was born on a Prussian estate in 1924

(05:24) Seven years ago, Dietrich Bonhoeffer taught confirmation class in Germany

(09:32) Dietrich fell in love with Maria while serving in the war

(15:25) Dietrich and Maria became engaged on January 13, 1943

(23:53) The first attempt at an assassination on Hitler in 1943 failed spectacularly

(28:53) Gestapo arrested Dietrich Bonhoeffer for suspected Nazi conspiracy

(34:24) Dietrich Bonhoeffer was arrested for suspected involvement in a Hitler plot

(35:37) Dietrich Bonhoeffer stood against Hitler and was executed in 1945

Episode Sponsor:

The church is corrupted https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKFSXQTR.

The church is born https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BGLZ7C1.

The Church sings https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DL1BTT1X

Links:

https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens

An Africa mission I recommend: https://globaltrain.org

Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2570126/episodes/18513087

My Bible Reading Plan: https://bible.com/reading-plans/2053/together/78277240/invitation?token=YfuaPBjn98pOXxRD_Fhhow&source=share

If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well:

The History of the Hymns: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns

The Rise and Fall of Faith in Germany: Bonhoeffer's Story https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35176895/the-rise-and-fall-of-faith-in-germany-bonhoeffers-story

The Hidden History of Eugenics and Its Modern Implications: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35159509/the-hidden-history-of-eugenics-and-its-modern-implications

Faith in the 1920s: Surviving After the Storm: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35141113/faith-in-the-1920-s-surviving-after-the-storm

In this thought-provoking episode, we delve into the moral complexities Dietrich Bonhoeffer faced during the rise of Nazi Germany.

As a pastor, Bonhoeffer grappled with profound questions about truth, deception, and the role of Christians in the face of evil.

Join us as we explore his journey from public resistance to clandestine efforts against Hitler, revealing the challenges of faith and morality in tumultuous times.

Chapters:

(01:13) Germany defeated France in 1940, but not everything is as it appears

(07:16) Pastor Dietrich Bonhoeffer publicly criticized Nazi policies in 1939

(10:51) The persecution of the Jewish people was the most visible evil of Hitler's regime

(15:27) Nazi euthanasia program targeted people with disabilities, mental illness and epilepsy

(22:20) Dietrich found himself sitting in secret meetings discussing assassination

(22:51) Pastor Dietrich Bonhoeffer lived a double life during WWII

(29:01) Every generation faces its own moral test, says Laurie Bonhoeffer

Episode Sponsor:

The church is corrupted https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKFSXQTR.

The church is born https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BGLZ7C1.

The Church sings https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DL1BTT1X

Links:

https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens

An Africa mission I recommend: https://globaltrain.org

Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2570126/episodes/18513087

My Bible Reading Plan: https://bible.com/reading-plans/2053/together/78277240/invitation?token=YfuaPBjn98pOXxRD_Fhhow&source=share

If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well:

The History of the Hymns: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns

The Rise and Fall of Faith in Germany: Bonhoeffer's Story https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35176895/the-rise-and-fall-of-faith-in-germany-bonhoeffers-story

The Hidden History of Eugenics and Its Modern Implications: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35159509/the-hidden-history-of-eugenics-and-its-modern-implications

Faith in the 1920s: Surviving After the Storm: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35141113/faith-in-the-1920-s-surviving-after-the-storm

In this episode, we continue our exploration of the Church at War series, focusing on the life and impact of Dietrich Bonhoeffer during the rise of Nazi Germany. Host Lorelee Siemens discusses Bonhoeffer's observations of the church's struggle between faith and nationalism, his encounters with different expressions of Christianity in America, and his eventual return to Germany amidst growing political extremism.

This episode raises critical questions about the church's responsibility in times of moral crisis and the dangers of losing sight of Christ amidst cultural identity.

Chapters:

(01:38) Martin Luther helped launch the Protestant Reformation in 1517

(04:08) Dietrich Bonhoeffer studied at Union Theological Seminary

(12:18) Dietrich returned from America in 1931 to a Germany that was changing

(13:38) In 1930s Germany, Luther Day became a national pride celebration

(20:15) Adolf Hitler and the Nazi government tried to control the German church

(25:17) The pro-Nazi German Christian movement insisted that Christianity could serve the state

(33:05) Sabine and her family flee Germany

(40:41) Hatred against Jews is once again spreading openly across most of the Western world

Episode Sponsor:

The church is corrupted https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKFSXQTR.

The church is born https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BGLZ7C1.

The Church sings https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DL1BTT1X

Links:

https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens

An Africa mission I recommend: https://globaltrain.org

Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2570126/episodes/18513087

My Bible Reading Plan: https://bible.com/reading-plans/2053/together/78277240/invitation?token=YfuaPBjn98pOXxRD_Fhhow&source=share

If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well

:

The History of the Hymns: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns

The Rise and Fall of Faith in Germany: Bonhoeffer's Story https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35176895/the-rise-and-fall-of-faith-in-germany-bonhoeffers-story

The Hidden History of Eugenics and Its Modern Implications: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35159509/the-hidden-history-of-eugenics-and-its-modern-implications

Faith in the 1920s: Surviving After the Storm: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35141113/faith-in-the-1920-s-surviving-after-the-storm

In this episode, Lorelee Siemens explores the profound impact of Martin Luther on Germany and the early life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. We delve into how Luther's translation of the Bible and his hymns shaped German identity and culture, as well as the rise of nationalism and the eventual descent into darkness under Adolf Hitler.

Discover how Bonhoeffer's upbringing and experiences during turbulent times prepared him for a courageous stand against evil when many chose silence.

Chapters:

(01:00) Martin Luther transformed German worship and helped reshape German identity.

(05:06) In 1906, Germany stood at the height of its power and confidence

(12:25) In 1914, many Germans believed that a coming war would be a quick victory

(15:33) By 1918, the excitement of war had vanished from Germany

(21:35) After the war, Germans struggled to understand how the mighty fatherland had fallen

(25:47) Dietrich Bonhoeffer decided to study theology after World War I

(30:33) Dietrich Bonhoeffer left Germany in 1930 to study in America

(38:15) As Nazi ideology tightened its grip on Germany, the crisis for Bonhoeffer became personal

(42:53) What can the church learn from the early life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Books:

The Church sings https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DL1BTT1X.

The church is corrupted https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKFSXQTR.

The church is born https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BGLZ7C1.

Links:

https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens

An Africa mission I recommend: https://globaltrain.org

Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2570126/episodes/18513087

My Bible Reading Plan: https://bible.com/reading-plans/2053/together/78277240/invitation?token=YfuaPBjn98pOXxRD_Fhhow&source=share

If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well:

The History of the Hymns: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns

The Hidden History of Eugenics and Its Modern Implications: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35159509/the-hidden-history-of-eugenics-and-its-modern-implications

Faith in the 1920s: Surviving After the Storm: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35141113/faith-in-the-1920-s-surviving-after-the-storm

In this episode, we explore Germany's tumultuous journey from the end of World War I to Hitler's dictatorship. Host Lorelee Siemens discusses the fragile democracy that emerged post-war, the impact of the Treaty of Versailles, and the rise of radical parties amidst economic despair.

We delve into the complexities of Adolf Hitler's early life and how he transformed from a struggling artist to a political leader who exploited Germany's crises.

The episode also examines the church's role during this dark period, highlighting both complicity and resistance within German Christianity. Join us as we uncover the lessons from history that resonate today.

Chapters:

(01:32) Germany's path from the end of World War I to Hitler's dictatorship

(04:07) Adolf Hitler was born into a traditional Catholic family in Austria

(09:25) By the 1930s, many Germans were exhausted from suffering and economic collapse

(14:59) The German church asked: "What do Christians do with Adolf Hitler?"

Episode Sponsor:

The church is corrupted https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKFSXQTR.

The church is born https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BGLZ7C1.

Alexander Henry Coffee https://alexanderhenrycoffee.ca Use CODE: churchhistory for 20% off

Links:

https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens

An Africa mission I recommend: https://globaltrain.org

Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2570126/episodes/18513087

My Bible Reading Plan: https://bible.com/reading-plans/2053/together/78277240/invitation?token=YfuaPBjn98pOXxRD_Fhhow&source=share

If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well:

The History of the Hymns: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns

The Hidden History of Eugenics and Its Modern Implications: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35159509/the-hidden-history-of-eugenics-and-its-modern-implications

Faith in the 1920s: Surviving After the Storm: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35141113/faith-in-the-1920-s-surviving-after-the-storm

In this episode, we explore the tumultuous period in Italy between World War I and World War II, examining how the church navigated the chaos of war, political instability, and the rise of fascism.

We delve into the profound impact of the Roman Catholic Church on Italian society during these years, highlighting the tension between state and church, and the pivotal moment of the Lateran Pact in 1929.

Join us as we uncover the spiritual battles Pope Pius XI faced and the church's response to ideologies that threatened to replace God with the state.

Chapters:

(02:08) Life in Italy before World War II tells a story of contrast

(06:43) Since 1929, the Vatican has officially become a sovereign, neutral state

(11:47) Pope Pius XI warned against fascism, Nazism, and communism

(17:06) Lessons to learn from Italy

Episode Sponsor:

The church is corrupted https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKFSXQTR.

The church is born https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BGLZ7C1.

Alexander Henry Coffee https://alexanderhenrycoffee.ca Use CODE: churchhistory for 20% off

Links:

https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens

An Africa mission I recommend: https://globaltrain.org

Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2570126/episodes/18513087

My Bible Reading Plan: https://bible.com/reading-plans/2053/together/78277240/invitation?token=YfuaPBjn98pOXxRD_Fhhow&source=share

If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well:

The History of the Hymns: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns

The Hidden History of Eugenics and Its Modern Implications: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35159509/the-hidden-history-of-eugenics-and-its-modern-implications

Faith in the 1920s: Surviving After the Storm: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35141113/faith-in-the-1920-s-surviving-after-the-storm

The Church has always sung.

From the earliest believers to modern worship, hymns have carried theology, told stories of faith, and helped believers worship through every season of history.

My new book walks through church history through the lens of hymns—revealing the people, struggles, and truths behind the songs we still sing today.

If you love church history, worship, or simply want to grow deeper in your faith… this book is for you.

The Church doesn’t just tell its history…

it sings it.

Discover the stories behind the hymns that shaped our faith.

👉 Get the book:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GTVC66WN