Pain as a Status Symbol: Modern "Offer It Up" vs. the Theology of Catholic Compassion

09/09/2025 58 min Episodio 11
Pain as a Status Symbol: Modern "Offer It Up" vs. the Theology of Catholic Compassion

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Episode Synopsis

In this episode of Theology Forward: The Unwanted, hosts Dan and Jon talk with hospital chaplain Matthew about suffering, empathy, and how the Church can accompany those who feel marginalized. They discuss St. Catherine of Siena, clinical chaplaincy, and personal stories of coming out to explore how pain can open the way to compassion.
Matthew shares his journey from seminary to chaplaincy, explains inherent versus avoidable suffering, and urges a church that listens and stays with people in their wounds—offering presence and mercy before scripted responses.

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