Many people are hurting in some way in this day and age — even as they did in biblical times. But scriptures tell us very clearly that there is power in suffering … whether the suffering is emotional, physical, intellectual, spiritual, or having to do with relationships or livelihood.

This talk has been adapted from portions of the books by John MacArthur, Jr. entitled: The Power of Suffering: Strengthening Your Faith in the Refiner’s Fire (Word of Joy Foundation Inc., Phils., c1995) and Dr. James Kennedy’s book Turn It To Gold (WOJ). The ppt presentation also includes excerpts from Pope Benedict XVI’s Message for the World Day of the Sick 2011, plus a passage from his encyclical Spe Salvi: On Christian Hope. Other references include Catechism for Filipino Catholics, The Anawim Way: Liturgical Reflections, with biblical quotations from the New American Bible.

The course on Suffering consists of six ppt presentations that include Reflection and Sharing points with each major section topic. The topics are: Introduction; I – Suffering in the Plan of God; II – Biblical Examples of Faith Under Fire; III – Your Attitude Makes a Difference; IV – Lessons Learned from Suffering and Adversity; and, V – Hope in the Face of Suffering.

The course may be given as a one-day recollection, or used in small action group discussions after the talks.

The ppt presentations for The Power of Suffering may be obtained from the Portal Editor, Nancy R. Catan, through her email jane.russetan@yahoo.com. Just specify which one or ones that you would like to use, and the group that will participate. God bless.