The Love That Follows: A Journey of Discipleship and Spiritual Fathers

Book Description

The Love That Follows: A Journey of Discipleship and Spiritual Fathers is a heartfelt memoir and spiritual reflection by Kenneth Bracker that transcends denominational lines to offer a rich, honest exploration of what it truly means to follow Christ in today's complex world. This is not a theoretical or instructional book on discipleship. Instead, it is the deeply personal story of Kenneth Bracker's own slow, sometimes messy, but ultimately transformative journey of faith-a journey shaped and sustained by the faithful presence of spiritual fathers from various Christian traditions.

In an age when discipleship is often reduced to programs, lectures, and quick-fix formulas, Kenneth's story is a breath of fresh air. It dares to reclaim discipleship as a lifelong, relational process-one marked by vulnerability, healing, persistence, and grace. It tells how real discipleship happens not primarily in classrooms or pulpits, but in the lived, messy realities of community; in the quiet cups of coffee shared between mentor and mentee; in the patient prayers of those who refuse to give up on us; and in the gentle, steady accompaniment of those who know the wounds and joys of the spiritual path firsthand.

Kenneth draws readers into the intimate world of his spiritual formation, weaving together vivid stories of the pastors, priests, and laymen who poured their lives into his own. Among them are figures from evangelical, Methodist, Anglican, and Orthodox backgrounds-men who, regardless of denominational differences, embodied the heart of Christ by loving, guiding, and interceding faithfully. Their witness is a powerful reminder that God's grace flows through all the branches of the Christian family, and that spiritual fatherhood is not confined to any one tradition.

Central to this narrative is the profound role of confession and spiritual guidance in the Orthodox tradition, as experienced through Kenneth's relationship with his current spiritual father, Father Demetrius-a man whose connection to the great Saint Paisios of Mount Athos brings a unique depth to their encounters. Through hours of conversation, listening, and gentle counsel, Kenneth discovers confession not as condemnation, but as a sacred space of healing, renewal, and true discipleship.

Readers will find candid reflections on the challenges of marriage, his spiriutal journey, and the indispensable grace of spiritual fathers who meet us where we are. The book explores themes of humility, repentance, community, and the patient work of transformation, inviting readers to reconsider how they engage with their own spiritual journeys and relationships.

The Love That Follows is a tribute to the saints hidden in plain sight-those who love us quietly, who hold space for our brokenness, and who guide us gently toward the fullness of life in Christ. Kenneth Bracker challenges us to embrace discipleship not as a project or achievement, but as a lifelong walk marked by grace, presence, and unconditional love.

Whether you are new to the Christian faith, wrestling with your own spiritual doubts, or seeking deeper connection and growth in your walk with God, this book offers wisdom, encouragement, and a refreshing vision of what it means to be truly discipled.