Padre Jacob Powell

I am a Roman Catholic priest in a diocese in Texas. I wrote "Praying With Our Sorrowful Mother" because I was personally struck by the immense sufferings that our Lady accepted during her life. She is the model for each of us as Christians striving to unite our souls, our sorrows, and our entire lives to the Jesus Christ. Through her torments we get a beautiful view of her interior holiness, her perfect virtues, and a greater appreciation for all the our Lord suffered. The more we know her, the more we love Him. The more we know Him, the more we love her. My hope is that this little book can help Christians fall in love with the Blessed Virgin all the more and seek to follow her example as she leads us all to a greater relationship with the King of Kings.

I wrote "The Saving Power of Suffering" because I often encounter parishioners who are really struggling with their trials and all the sadness in their lives and in the world around them. My heart goes out to them. I wanted to develop a resource that can answer some of their questions and give them some practical steps to better use their sufferings for their spiritual growth. I wanted them to find the goodness of God in the midst of their suffering. Although it may be more difficult for us to experience the love of God while we endure difficulties, He is still with us and present. Therefore, this book's aim is to introduce sound Catholic doctrine and essential practical steps into the lives of Catholics for their spiritual enrichment.