Dietrich Bonhoeffer grew up in Breslau, a city in Germany. He showed an early interest in philosophy, learning christianity from his mother and nannies. After losing two brothers in World War I Bonhoeffer became a christian minister. He first studied in Germany but later traveled to Spain and New York to study theology. While Hitler was gaining power in Germany Bonhoeffer spoke out against his persecution of the Jews. He then traveled to London to serve as a pastor to German congregations. In response to the German Church turning to Nazism, Bonhoeffer spoke out even more, preaching and helping Jewish refugees in London. In 1934 Bonhoeffer was invited back to Germany to direct a seminary in Zingst. The seminary was moved to Finkenwald later. His seminary was eventually closed by the Gestapo. He then began working for the resistance. He traveled outside of Germany to contact the Allies. Bonhoeffer also helped Jews escape from Germany. In January 1943 he became engaged to Maria von Wedemeyer. They never married.

On April 5th 1943 Dietrich Bonhoeffer was arrested by the Gestapo for his involvement in the conspiracy. He managed to befriend the guards and other prisoners, getting priveleges many other prisoners didn't get, including time with his family. While in prison Bonhoeffer helped the other prisoners. On October 5th, 1944 documents connected to Bonhoeffer were found. Only then did he consider escape. As the time towards his escape neared, many members of his family and friends were arrested. Not wanting to endanger them, Bonhoeffer canceled his escape. He was eventually transfered to Buchenwald. Right before his death he celebrated Mass the Sunday after Easter. Bonhoeffer was executed on April 9th, 1945.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer is a perfect example of a person of faith. He had an extremely strong belief in his mission to help others. He struggled in Germany, helping the resistance and saving the persecuted Jews. His desire to help others continued even while he was in prison. While in New York he spent much of his time in the Harlem teaching the congregation. In prison he showed his trust in his family and friends to get him out of prison. His belief in his mission helped him stay in prison so that he wouldn't endanger his family and friends. He died for his faith on April 9th, 1945.

http://www.pbs.org/opb/bonhoeffer/man/student.html

Sources: Dietrich Bonhoeffer homepage PBS special on Dietrich Bonhoeffer Dietrich Bonhoeffer: A Biography by Eberhard Bethge, revised by Victoria J. Barnett