Lessons From the School of Suffering: A Young Priest With Cancer Teaches Us How to Live

by Jim Willig, Tammy Bundy (Contributor)

Suffering is no guarantee of holiness. Many times it can be an invaluable teacher; other times it can crush a person into self-pity. But the lessons to be learned from suffering are many and, if we learn these lessons well, they can transform our lives, according to a young priest suffering from renal cancer.

In Lessons From the School of Suffering, Father Jim Willig shares his story of being diagnosed in his late 40's with terminal renal cancer and the consequences of living with cancer and undergoing various treatments, none of which have stemmed the disease. Willig, a beloved pastor and inspiring preacher, felt called to share the lessons he has learned from the great pain associated with having cancer.

The audio edition of this book can be downloaded via

Genres: Spirituality, Catholic

100 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2001

Reviews

[Josh Malbon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book. It helped me a lot, while my mother has been dying of cancer.
Enlightening. I am glad Willig shared his story.

[Allee Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Recommend that everyone that is suffering in this life to read this.
Job 42:2-3:
Then Job replied to the Lord:
“I know that you can do all things;
no purpose of yours can be thwarted.
You asked, ‘Who is this that obscures my plans without knowledge?’
Surely I spoke of things I did not understand,
things too wonderful for me to know.”

[David Beat · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great tool for learning the power and intimacy of suffering. I cried alongside this priest and his painful yet poignant journey towards a deeper relationship and understanding of Jesus and his/our cross. It changed my view of suffering and its purpose in our lives.

[Chris Reidy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Real. I wanted to read this book again, after finishing.

[Elizabeth Salai · Rating 5 out of 5]

I forgot I read this over the summer. Sobering.

[Fred · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've learned to view my situation as the cross God has asked me to bare & understand it from God's perspective as He continues to reveal it. This book, I believe, will be extremely helpful for those who are supportive of the current cross bearer. The Christian will be drawn to a more intimate relationship with Jesus, our Lord & savior. This book will help you have a clearer understanding of the meaning of submission.

[Jeanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read the originally when my son purchased it for me; I have given it to friends to read; and I have just re-read it. This is a book about a young priest with cancer - and while his Cross is evident, his transformation is astonishing. I learn more every time I read it!

[Terrie Mcgoron · Rating 5 out of 5]

Father Jim was a very important influence in my life. I am proud to have known him. This book tells of his struggles with the cancer that ultimately claimed his life. I like to think he is watching down on me still from heaven just as I felt he was doing in life.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick read. I really related to a lot of his emotions and experiences although I haven't personally gone through such a difficult journey. I found much of what he discussed very applicable to every day life.

[Andy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't often review books, I just rate them. This book moved me in ways I have never before felt and at a time when I was at my lowest. Fr. Jim spoke to me and touched my heart.

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must-read for anyone going through difficult times and those who accompany them on the journey.

[J Crossley · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was compelling in that you were brought along with this priest as he struggled with cancer, and the eventual realization that he was going to lose his battle.