Suffering: What Every Catholic Should Know

Maria Morera Johnson reviews a new book by Mark Giszczak that discusses how we can unite our suffering to that of Christ.

Mark Giszczak’s book, Suffering: What Every Catholic Should Know (Ignatius Press) resonated with me. Truth be told, I didn’t want it to affect me as deeply as it did. Long time readers of this blog know of my husband’s illness, and other members of my family are struggling with serious health concerns, as well. Beloved friends, too, have their share of suffering.

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I hoped to glean a better understanding of the Church’s teaching on suffering, and I did. If that is all I had taken away from this book, I would have had a strong foundational understanding of the theology of suffering. I knew there would be deep theological points, but Giszczak has a direct style that remains formal, but flows conversationally. I enjoyed reading the book, even though the topic is close to my own experience.

Coping with suffering as Christians is not just about pain management but also includes certain spiritual practices that lead us to surrender our lives more fully to the Lord. (10)

What struck me right away is how I experienced all the things that Giszszcak names. Suffering is universal, a part of the human condition, as misunderstood as it is pervasive. He doesn’t avoid the WHY that so many of us ask of God. And so, he begins with the story of Job, and goes on to describe how suffering is deeply personal, yet filled with the power of hope and redemption.

I reflected upon the various times of suffering in my life, as daughter, wife, and mother, as friend and companion, spiritually and physically, and I was consoled.

In suffering, we are transformed. It aligns us with Christ’s suffering on the cross, and brings us closer to Him. Suffering is not endured in vain, but is a great spiritual gift.

A recommended read in good times and in bad.

Ask for Suffering: What Every Catholic Should Know at your local Catholic bookseller, or order online from Amazon.com or the publisher, Ignatius Press.

Is this a book you'd like to read? Share your thoughts with the Catholic Mom community! You'll find the comment box below the author's bio and list of recommended articles.

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