Words to Guide Us Through Tragedy and Loss
Posted by Danielle Bean in Reviews on Saturday, May 09, 2009 12:30 PM
Even if you are not currently suffering a great catastrophe, Fr. Benedict Groeschel’s new book, Tears of God: Persevering in the Face of Great Sorrow or Catastrophe, is a worthwhile read for everyone.
Fr. Groeschel writes from the heart ... and experience. The inspiration for this particular book was Fr. Groeschel’s own catastrophic experience of suffering life-threatening injuries when he was hit by a car a few years ago.
But one need not be suffering great sorrow or injury at the moment in order to appreciate what this book has to offer. We all struggle with making sense out of the evil and tragedies that people sometimes do suffer in this world.
In his typical down to earth style, Groeschel addresses fears and doubts that naturally arise when trying circumstances test our faith. This quick, easy read would be a great help to anyone who finds himself at a loss for words to comfort loved ones who are grieving or reeling from recent catastrophic events.
Groeschel walks us through the natural steps of the grieving process and helps us to understand not only the ways in which we might grieve perrsonal sorrows, but also the way sin which we can be a support to others who are hurting.
One of my favorite parts of this book is the beautiful collection of Prayers in Times of grief and Sorrow. Some of these are traditional and familiar, but others are tailored to more specific tragic situations and would be a great source of comfort for those who are suffering those particular circumstances in their lives. Also included is a list of inspiring Scripture passages that are especially appropriate for those who are grieving or suffering great tragedies.
Fr. Benedict Groeschel made headlines again a little over a month ago when he suffered a stroke that has affected his ability to speak. This is a man who does not shy away from suffering. He knows in vivid detail the real challenges of enduring catastrophic events and coming through them with great faith.
Tears of God is one of the fruits of Fr. Groeschel’s suffering. It is a book every Catholic should own and one of his great gifts to the Church.
(You can hear a review of this book in the most recent Faith and Family podcast.)
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