John Paul II and the Meaning of Suffering: Lessons from a Spiritual Master
Men and women of every age grapple with how to make sense of suffering. Here, through the writings and teachings of JPII, Robert Schroeder helps us to make sense in our own times and in our own lives. --Matthew Kelly, author of Rediscovering Catholicism and The Rhythm of LifeIn a world filled with violence and suffering, Robert Schroeder's reflections upon John Paul II's On the Christian Meaning of Human Suffering offer the reader Christian insight into the key questions and struggles of our human condition. Interspersed with engaging stories, Schroeder names the spiritual pain we all experience, and reflects upon the lessons of faith from John Paul's Apostolic Letter in prevailing through suffering with grace and hope. --John Trokan, D.Min., Associate Professor and Chairperson, Religious and Pastoral Studies Department, College of Mount St. JosephMr. Schroeder's book takes a candid look at suffering. Drawing on experiences within his own life and lives of friends and acquaintances, he gives us the courage to ask the difficult questions. He is wise enough not to offer an answer to the mystery of suffering. But neither does he leave us to struggle with it alone. The book explores six lessons we sojourners in this world can draw from the hardships we must endure. The good news is, as he says, is that suffering can never render life meaningless.With God's word and the wisdom of late Holy Father John Paul II as his guides, Mr. Schroeder shows us how the woes of life can even lead to love. Readers may find especially satisfying Mr. Schroeder's reflections on the biblical Book of Job in Lesson 3 of the book. --Rev. Timothy Schehr, Ph.D., Professor of Biblical Studies, The Athenaeum of Ohio Mount St. Mary's Seminary