American culture often tries to emphasize “learning lessons” in the middle of suffering. For example, “Everything happens for a reason.” But Kate Bowler doesn’t think those “lessons” are coming from God; rather, God draws close to the brokenhearted and accompanies them. On this episode of “The Spiritual Life” podcast host James Martin, S.J. is joined by scholar of American religion history, Kate Bowler, who is also the creator of the popular podcast “Everything Happens” and the author of bestselling books including:

-Everything Happens for a Reason (and Other Lies I’ve Loved): https://katebowler.com/books/everything-happens-for-a-reason-and-other-lies-ive-loved/
-No Cure for Being Human: https://katebowler.com/books/no-cure-for-being-human/
-And her latest book, Joyful, Anyway!: https://katebowler.com/books/joyfulanyway/

Timecodes:
0:00 God’s grace is not like math
1:05 Who is Kate Bowler?
5:22 How getting diagnosed with stage 4 cancer changed Kate’s faith
11:55 What not to say to someone who is suffering
19:38 How to accompany those who suffer
26:37 The problem with happiness and “good vibes only”
31:32 The paradox and practice of joy
45:50 Kate’s spiritual practices of honesty and service
49:11 Why its so hard to suffer in America
51:53 Audience Question: How do we believe in a just and loving God in the midst of an unjust and unloving world?
57:54 Kate’s blessing

Read Fr. Jim's article on the mystery of suffering: Coming Soon

Do you have a spiritual question for Fr. Jim? You can write to us at: [email protected]
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