Edna Hatlestad Hong (1913–2007)

I confess that I'm a cynical man--all to quick to roll my eyes when stories start effusing about things like goodness and love. I'll usually skip any story that might make it to the Hallmark channel. That said, goodness and love are worth effusing about, and a good story can feature them without having to mix in a dark edge to the plot and characters. For example, you have this book.

Bright Valley of Love is the true story of Gunther and the place where he grew up. Gunther was born in Germany in 1914. He was handicapped, due in part to neglect by his birth family. When Gunther was seven, his family brought him to Bethel, a community for the physically and mentally impaired. In a world where disdain and neglect was common for many handicapped people. Bethel offered a loving community dedicated to physical and spiritual care for its members. The book takes us through Gunther's childhood, as he finds a new family at Bethel and thrives despite his handicapped body. The tale then goes on as Hitler gains power in Germany and Gunther and his brothers and sisters are threatened by the Nazi's twisted plan to "purify" Germany.

I'm not sure how this tale pierced my cynical shell--maybe it was all the quoted hymn verses--but I'm sure glad it did.
--J.… (more)

Rickets, poor nutrition, and lack of care had left Gunther with a body twisted and malformed. Gunther is abandoned at Bethel by a family that wishes to no longer be burdened by him. He finds a home among the 2000 children in Bethel, a valley that is a haven for the handicapped. Gunther arrived at Bethel in the year of 1921 and the years sped by it is 1932, Bethel is in Germany. The Nazi have no love for those they consider a drain on society. This is the true story of Gunther’s life and the men and women who made Bethel a haven of love.… (more)

The story of Gunther, abandoned and abused by his family, finding a place of love and safety among Christians who care for all is so moving. The story is told from Gunther's perspective as he grapples with rejection and feelings of worthlessness. Pastor Fritz's love for him as well as all the others is remarkable. The whole community embraces those society rejects. All of this takes place during Nazi Germany when the Nazis are killing all who don't measure up. Yet Pastor Fritz, through prayer and courage, protects them all.… (more)