Thinking Faith Catholic Podcast
Why Does God Allow Suffering? Faith, Evil, and Hope Explained
TF | S03 E19 | In this episode of Thinking Faith, Deacon Eric Gurash and Dr. Brett Salkeld respond to a powerful question from Grade 9–10 students at Miller High School: If God is always helping us, why is there so much suffering in the world? Drawing on Christian theology, Scripture, and real-life experience, they explore the problem of evil, distinguishing between natural suffering and moral evil, and examining how faith understands both. The conversation highlights how God does not cause suffering—but works through it, bringing grace, growth, and hope even in the most difficult moments. Through insights from the Psalms, the Cross, and everyday life, this episode offers a deeply honest and hopeful look at suffering—encouraging listeners to seek the full truth of their lives, practice gratitude, and trust that evil does not have the final word. 01:14 Student Questions 02:23 Why God Allows Pain 03:19 Natural vs Moral Evil 05:24 Death and Sin 10:07 Grace Changes Perspective 12:41 Holy Indifference Ignatius 14:47 Evil Feels Like Winning 17:57 Hope Through Suffering 18:59 God Doesn't Waste Pain 20:18 Remembering Past Grace 20:56 When You Would Trade It 23:04 Trust Beyond Answers 24:17 Christ in Gethsemane 25:08 Despair After the Cross 27:11 John the Baptist Doubts 29:30 Guilt Over Graces 30:15 Why Me to Why Not 32:10 Evil Defeats Itself 33:08 Problem of the Good 35:30 Gratitude in Hard Times 40:24 Truth Not Denial 42:04 Wrap Up and Thanks