Why do we suffer?
March 2, 2009
This month our reading and discussion will explore the profound mystery of suffering. Is suffering a test? Why do bad things happen to good people? How could God allow this to happen? Why did this happen to me? How should I respond to suffering? Is there an “ethics” of treating pain? These and other questions can be brought to the table for discussion. Prime the pump with these readings:
- For reflection on what the life and death of Jesus calls us to, see The Mystery of Suffering: How Should I Respond? by Kenneth Overberg, S.J.
- For a brief update on the current “theology of suffering” see Why Must I Suffer? by Jack Wintz, O.F.M.
- For a “medical” perspective – Ethics and Suffering: from Healing to Relief of Suffering by Dr. Richard C. Eyer.
- And finally, for a Catholic response to euthanasia, assisted suicide, life support and advance directives in light of church teaching and moral ethics, see End of Life Ethics by Kenneth Overberg, S.J.
Come with your experience and questions!