Suffering 101
Why Is There Suffering in the World?
Imagine a world where no one ever experiences pain, loss, or hardship. At first glance, it seems like paradise. But in such a world, could love exist in its fullest sense? Without suffering, there would be no need for compassion, no calls for self-sacrifice, and no opportunities for heroic acts of love that arise in the face of adversity.
Suffering is a universal and deeply personal experience. It is central to the human experience and challenges every person, often prompting questions about the nature of God, the meaning of life, and the purpose of pain. Catholic teaching offers profound insights into suffering, revealing its place within God’s plan of salvation and its transformative potential for individuals and communities. We’ll explore how suffering is a path to deeper connection with God, with others, and with our own purpose. We will define suffering, why suffering exists, how Catholics are called to endure it, and why eliminating suffering in favor of “happiness” should not be the goal.
I. What is Suffering?
This seems an easy question but the dimensions of suffering are part of every aspect of the human experience. Every human can provide a definition through example or personal experience. But, understanding the dimensions of suffering are central to understanding how to incorporate and confront suffering as Catholics. For Catholics, suffering comes in several forms.
A. Physical Suffering — Physical suffering is the pain and hardship that affect the body due to illness, injury or natural calamaties. [CCC s. 1500]
B. Moral Suffering - This involves the anguish caused by sin, guilt or injustice. It includes the personal struggle with one’s own failures and the effects of others’ sins. [CCC s. 405 and s. 1850]
C. Emotional/Psychological Suffering — This pertains to mental and emotional distress such as grief, anxiety or loneliness. [CCC s. 1007 and s. 1769]
D. Spiritual Suffering — Spiritual suffering occurs when the soul feels distant from God or struggles with doubt, temptation or desolation. [CCC s 2731]
E. Social Suffering - This results from systemic sin and collective effects of human brokenness such as poverty, war and/or discrimination. [CCC s. 2448]
F. Redemptive Suffering - THIS is the Catholic concept that suffering, when united with Christ, has redemptive value leading to personal sanctification and the salvation of others.
G. Eschatological Suffering — This suffering relates to humanity’s journey toward its ultimate destiny encompassing temporal punishment, purification in Purgatory and eternal separation from God in Hell for those who reject Him. [CCC s. 1030 and s. 1033]
II. The Theology of Suffering
A. The Origin of Suffering: A Consequence of Sin
Suffering entered the world through the sin of Adam and Eve. It is not a punishment directly willed by God but a result of humanity’s misuse of free will, disrupting the harmony of creation.
“Cursed is the earth in thy work; with labour and toil shalt thou eat thereof all the days of thy life. Thorns and thistles shall it bring forth to thee In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread”
This passage highlights that suffering is a natural consequence of humanity’s separation from God. Adam and Eve imported disorder into creation reflecting the rupture in the relationship between humanity and the Creator.
But, why would a just God allow suffering to exist? St. Augustine, in The City of God, explains that God, in His justice, permits suffering as a means to bring about a greater good. He notes, “
“God judged it better to bring good out of evil than to suffer no evil to exist.”
Suffering becomes a tool that can refine the soul, leading it back to God.
B. The Redemption of Suffering: Christ’s Passion as the Turning Point
The suffering and death of Jesus Christ transformed suffering into a redemptive reality. By freely embracing the Cross, Christ gave suffering a new meaning, turning it into the path to salvation. This, of course, was prophesized in the Book of Isaiah:
“But he was wounded for our iniquities, he was bruised for our sins: the chastisement of our peace was upon him, and by his bruises we are healed.”
The prophecy of the Suffering Servant prefigured Christ’s Passion, where He bore the weight of humanity’s sins to reconcile the world to God.
The Council of Trent affirmed that Christ’s sacrifice on the Cross is the ultimate atonement for sin, a perfect act of love that allows believers to unite their sufferings with His for the salvation of the world.
“Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up those things that are wanting of the sufferings of Christ, in my flesh, for His body, which is the Church.”
This verse reveals that Christians are invited to participate in Christ’s redemptive work by offering their own suffering as a spiritual sacrifice.
St. Thomas Aquinas, in Summa Theologica (III, Q. 46), writes:
“The Passion of Christ is sufficient to atone for all sins, yet it is fitting that we unite our own sufferings to His as an offering of love.”
This teaching underscores the Catholic belief that suffering is not an end in itself but a means of growing in union with Christ.
C. God’s Justice and Mercy in Suffering
Catholic theology holds that suffering is not merely an expression of divine justice but also an opportunity to encounter God’s mercy. Suffering invites humanity to trust in God’s plan and to rely on His grace.
Pope Benedict XVI, in Spe Salvi, writes:
“It is not by sidestepping or fleeing from suffering that we are healed, but rather by our capacity for accepting it, maturing through it, and finding meaning through union with Christ” (Spe Salvi §37).
The Catechism of the Catholic Church echoes this, stating:
“The way of perfection passes by way of the Cross. There is no holiness without renunciation and spiritual battle” (CCC §2015)
III. Eliminating Suffering Isn’t the Goal
A. Suffering as a Means of Sanctification
Suffering, though difficult, purifies the soul and leads it closer to God. It detaches us from earthly attachments and redirects our focus to eternal life. Consider:
James 1:2-4: “My brethren, count it all joy, when you shall fall into divers temptations; knowing that the trying of your faith worketh patience. And patience hath a perfect work.”
This passage highlights how suffering refines the soul, teaching virtues such as patience, humility, and perseverance.
B. The Cross as the Model of Love
The Cross teaches that suffering can be transformed into an act of love. Jesus willingly endured the agony of the Cross for the salvation of humanity, demonstrating that love often requires sacrifice.
John 15:13: “Greater love than this no man hath, that a man lay down his life for his friends”
This verse emphasizes that love is perfected through self-giving, even to the point of suffering.
C. The Danger of Seeking a World Without Suffering
Our Modern society prioritizes “happiness” at almost all costs. Social Media is filled with lamentations about the elimination of suffering and the ever-present pursuit of “happiness.” Well before the advent of Tik Tok, the Church has warned against such a mindset. Pope Pius X, in Pascendi Dominici Gregis, warned against attempts to remove suffering by denying spiritual realities. He argued that such efforts undermine true faith and ignore the redemptive value of the Cross.
In its pursuit of the elimination of suffering, modern society has devolved into morally problematic means such as euthanasia, abortion, or genetic manipulation. While these actions may promise relief, they fail to respect human dignity and the role of suffering in God’s plan.
Pope Benedict XVI, in Spe Salvi, warns against this mindset:
A world without suffering would be a world without love.
IV. How is a World Without Suffering One Without Love??
When we imagine a world where no one ever experiences pain, loss, or hardship, at first glance, it seems like paradise. But in such a world, would love exist in its fullest sense? Without suffering, there would be no need for compassion, no calls for self-sacrifice, and no opportunities for heroic acts of love that arise in the face of adversity. In Salvifici Doloris, Pope John Paul II teaches us that suffering, though difficult, holds profound meaning when united with love. It is a path to deeper connection with God, with others, and with our own purpose.
A. The Step by Step Guide to Suffering
In Salvifici Doloris (1984), Pope John Paul II offers profound insights into the redemptive meaning of human suffering. Catholics are called to approach suffering not as a meaningless burden but as an opportunity to unite themselves with Christ’s Passion and participate in God’s salvific work. Below is a step-by-step guide for Catholics to respond to suffering, drawing from the principles outlined in this apostolic letter.
1. Recognize the Meaning of Suffering
Teaching: Pope John Paul II emphasizes that suffering, while a consequence of sin, acquires new meaning through Christ’s Passion. It becomes a means of sharing in God’s redemptive work.
Step: Reflect on the mystery of the Cross and acknowledge that Christ transformed suffering into a pathway to salvation. Meditate:
Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up those things that are wanting of the sufferings of Christ, in my flesh, for his body, which is the church:(Colossians 1:24).
Action: Spend time in prayer and Scripture reading, particularly on the Passion narratives, to deepen your understanding of suffering’s purpose.
2. Unite Your Suffering with Christ
Teaching: Catholics are invited to offer their suffering in union with Christ’s sacrifice on the Cross. This transforms pain into a spiritual act of love and redemption.
Step: Offer your suffering as a prayer for others, asking God to use it for the salvation of souls or specific intentions.
Action: Pray these words, “Jesus, I unite my suffering to Yours for the salvation of souls”— especially during moments of intense pain or trial. Consider praying the Rosary, focusing on the Sorrowful Mysteries.
3. Trust in God’s Providence
Teaching: In Salvifici Doloris, John Paul II urges believers to trust in God’s plan, even when it is difficult to understand. Suffering is not meaningless but is used by God to bring about good.
Step: Accept suffering with trust and surrender, believing that God can bring spiritual growth and blessings from it.
Action: Practice the prayer of surrender, such as the Suscipe of St. Ignatius: “Take, Lord, and receive all my liberty, my memory, my understanding, and my entire will.”
4. Find Strength in the Sacraments
Teaching: The sacraments, particularly the Eucharist and the Anointing of the Sick, are sources of grace and strength in suffering. They unite the faithful with Christ and the Church.
Step: Participate regularly in the sacraments to receive God’s grace and healing.
Action: Attend Mass as often as possible, receive the Eucharist, and seek the Sacrament of Reconciliation to remain spiritually strong. If suffering from serious illness, request the Anointing of the Sick.
5. Embrace the Call to Compassion
Teaching: Suffering teaches us solidarity and compassion, inviting us to care for others who are in pain. As Pope John Paul II states, suffering allows us to “discover the depth of human hearts.”
Step: Let your suffering inspire you to reach out to others who are suffering.
Action: Engage in acts of charity, such as visiting the sick, supporting those in grief, or volunteering with organizations that assist the needy. This outward focus helps alleviate the burden of personal suffering.
6. Remember the Eschatological Hope
Teaching: Suffering is temporary and prepares the faithful for the eternal joy of heaven. Pope John Paul II reminds Catholics that “the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory to come.” (Romans 8:18).
Step: Focus on the promise of eternal life and the ultimate end of all suffering in God’s kingdom.
Action: Meditate on the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12) and Revelation 21:4. Pray for perseverance and the grace to endure suffering with hope.
Summary of Steps
1. Recognize the meaning of suffering by meditating on Christ’s Passion.
2. Unite your suffering with Christ as a spiritual offering.
3. Trust in God’s providence and surrender to His plan.
4. Draw strength from the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist and Anointing of the Sick.
5. Embrace compassion by using your suffering to help others.
6.Remember the hope of eternal life, where suffering will be no more..
V. What to Do When Faith Doesn’t Minimize Suffering
When suffering persists despite prayers, sacramental life, and acts of surrender, Catholics are called to remain steadfast in faith, trusting in God’s presence even in the absence of comfort. This response requires embracing the mystery of suffering, rooted in humility, perseverance, and a deeper trust in God’s will. Saints like St. Teresa of Calcutta (Mother Teresa) and Pope Pius X provide profound examples of how to endure prolonged suffering with unwavering faith.
“Suffering in itself is nothing, but suffering shared with the Passion of Christ is a gift. I have come to love the darkness, for it is in the darkness that I feel closest to Him.” [Come Be My Light]
A. Embrace the Mystery of Spiritual Darkness
Mother Teresa experienced decades of spiritual dryness and a sense of abandonment by God, yet she continued her mission tirelessly. In her private letters, she wrote:
“I feel just that terrible pain of loss, of God not wanting me, of God not being God, of God not really existing.”
Despite this darkness, she chose to see her suffering as a participation in Christ’s abandonment on the Cross (Matthew 27:46). She trusted that God was using her pain to draw her closer to Him and to serve as a model of love for others.
Practical Response: When relief does not come, unite your suffering with Christ’s Passion, as Mother Teresa did, and continue to serve others in faith, trusting that your pain has meaning even if it is not understood. Pray, “Lord, I believe. Help my unbelief” (Mark 9:24).
B. Persevere in Prayer and Sacraments
Both Mother Teresa and Pope Pius X emphasized perseverance in prayer and the sacraments during trials. Pope Pius X, in his encyclical Pascendi Dominici Gregis (1907), warned against abandoning traditional practices of faith when facing challenges, instead urging the faithful to remain grounded in the Eucharist and prayer. He reminded Catholics that, through the sacraments, they draw strength directly from Christ to endure trials.
Practical Response: Attend Mass regularly, even if you feel no consolation. Continue receiving the Eucharist and making acts of spiritual communion. Trust that the grace of the sacraments is at work, even when it is not felt.
C. Surrender to God’s Will with Humility
Pope Pius X exemplified the virtue of humility in suffering, urging Catholics to trust in divine providence without demanding immediate answers. His life demonstrated the importance of aligning personal will with God’s will, echoing the words of Christ in Gethsemane: “Not my will, but thine be done” (Luke 22:42).
Practical Response: When relief does not come, repeat an act of trust, such as the prayer of surrender: “Lord, I surrender my life, my suffering, and my will to Your divine plan. Let Your will be done in me.”
D. Offer Your Suffering for Others
Mother Teresa offered her interior suffering as a prayer for the poor and marginalized, seeing her pain as a hidden gift for the salvation of souls. Pope Pius X also taught that every trial borne patiently could bear fruit for the Church and the world, reinforcing the Catholic understanding of redemptive suffering (Colossians 1:24).
Practical Response: Consciously offer your suffering for specific intentions perhaps for the salvation of a loved one, for vocations, or for the conversion of sinners. This transforms your pain into an act of love, even when relief is not forthcoming.
E. Maintain Hope in the Promise of Heaven
Both Mother Teresa and Pope Pius X pointed to the hope of eternal life as the ultimate relief from all suffering. Mother Teresa often reminded her Missionaries of Charity to focus on the joy of meeting Jesus face-to-face in heaven, where all pain would be wiped away (Revelation 21:4). Pope Pius X encouraged the faithful to remain steadfast, reminding them that suffering is temporary and a preparation for eternal glory.
Practical Response: Meditate on the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12) and the promise of eternal life. Remind yourself that no suffering, no matter how intense, can compare to the glory that awaits in heaven (Romans 8:18).