On 15 September, we mark the Jubilee of Consolation.

Is there the presence of God in Consolation?

I believe that Consolation is the living presence of God at the most opportune moment when a human being needs it. I agree that it is God who decides when to grant ‘Consolation’. He is love and comfort at the same time.

I think there are situations where the human being screams in silence, suffers with sadness, as their pain has reached its maximum expression, which is why they moan with sorrow, rage, anguish, and cry tears of blood. For their powerlessness manages to break their vital energy, overshadowing their deep longings or dreams, shattered due to pain, abandonment, disillusion, or disappointment from injustice. It is in that moment that God appears with His gift of comfort.

To accept God’s gift of ‘Consolation’, one must first recognise it, second – open the heart and mind, and, third – accept that Consolation effectively enters personal life and expresses itself outwardly. Otherwise, one does not accept God’s gift, which is consolation, and the persona remains in sorrow, anger, or resentment, destroying their healing.

I believe that overcoming suffering is difficult; however, a person is not alone because they have God, family, and community to accompany them. Saint Mary MacKillop is an example of ‘Consolation’ for many people who suffered greatly in her time. Another example of consolation is Father Julian Tenison Woods, who showed concern and action for the poor people in his surroundings.

Pope Francis’ Catechesis on Discernment: Consolation (2022), tenderly spoke to us about the meaning of God’s gift to humanity – Consolation. From this, he encourages us not to fall into desolation, but to accept the Consolation that helps us advance personally and in serving others today. Furthermore, he refers us to the good example of Saint John of the Cross who presented Jesus as our Saviour, for the crucified one helps us live fully with the cross and resurrection.

When we accept the ‘Consolation’, Jesus invites us to endure with patience and faith, to understand pain, because consolation brings rest and peace to every person burdened by sufferings. For example, in Psalm 34 of the Bible, “The Lord hears the cry of the poor. Blessed be the Lord”. What a profound recognition and acceptance of Consolation, as it is within reach of every person.

My opinion on Pope Francis; Catechesis on Consolation, remains relevant in the lives of many people who suffer and have recognised and accepted the Consolation of God. We know that all prayers are united in asking God to grant us peace and tranquillity especially to those who are most burdened. And God, in His infinite mercy, gifts us with rest and joy in Consolation.

Finally, God makes His presence known with His gift of ‘Consolation’ that saves the person from the abyss of pain, providing peace, tranquillity, and progress in their spiritual life and social coexistence.

Maria Cecilia Paiva Huaringa rsj