Fr. Benedict Groeschel, best-selling author and beloved spiritual teacher, writer, and psychologist, wrote this latest book for all those who have suffered great sorrow or catastrophe in their lives and for those close to such persons, who share their deep suffering. Sorrow comes into the life of every person, but only into the lives of some people comes catastrophe. These are disasters that occur either suddenly or with terrible effects, like the death of a child. They can be natural disasters like hurricanes, or they can be horrific accidents or tragedies caused by people's evil acts. They can also arise from wars and situations of great tension.
Fr. Benedict has written previously about faith and sorrow (Arise from Darkness) and seeks in this book to study catastrophes of all different kinds in relationship to our faith in divine providence, in God’s goodness and mercy, and finally in the light of Christ’s suffering and death. Christianity is the only religion which speaks of a God who suffered a terrible catastrophe—crucifixion and death. Therefore, the Christian must, in the midst of catastrophe, find his way to the foot of the cross, and there he will find answers which cannot be given by any other religious faith.
All religions attempt to deal with catastrophe, all confront the mystery of suffering and of evil. Christianity invites you to share the burden of your catastrophe with the person who is our Savior and Redeemer, one who Himself endured great pain and sorrow, the son of God, Jesus Christ.
“This deeply moving book draws upon Fr. Groeschel’s own experience of catastrophic suffering and his insight as a psychologist and spiritual director. It is a book much needed and will be used to support, to comfort and to pray.”
— Cardinal Francis George, OMI Archbishop of Chicago
“This book helps us come to grips with the ongoing mysteries of evil in our lives that, if seen in the light of Christ’s death and Resurrection, are only steps to be embraced on our way to eternal life in heaven. A truly comforting and encouraging book to embrace the crosses that God allows to come our way.”
— Rev. C. J. McCloskey Author, Good News, Bad News
