In Podcasts, The Inner Life

Redemptive Suffering – The Inner Life – March 2, 2026

Patrick Conleyby Patrick Conley

Father Joseph Illo joins Patrick to discuss Redemptive Suffering

  • (3:19) What does the Church teach about suffering and God’s plan for suffering?

(20:34) Break 1

  • Father talks about the importance of responding to suffering well
  • (26:01) Yolie – A friend had a baby as the result of a rape. Refused to abort. Was alone after that and had to deal with shame. Is that redemptive suffering?
  • (31:37) Philip – I’m a knight of the Immaculata…sub group called knights at the foot of the cross. They have extreme suffering…many wheel chair bound. When I’ve introduced the concept of redemptive suffering…suddenly, my back pain or chronic pain is less…receiving relief. I think it’s a goodness of God as a thank you for offering it up.
  • Mario – I’ve noticed in others…sometimes when God sends you a cross, you’re carrying it for someone who is dear to you.

(38:21) Break 2

  • How does punishment and suffering come from sin?
  • (45:04) Ann – Live in independent living. Other floors have assisted living. Most people are 65+ up to 102. Lots of suffering going on. Don’t know how to approach them sometimes. Feel funny by just saying ‘offer it up.’ How do I approach it?
  • How do you cultivate joy in the midst of suffering?

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Patrick Conley

Patrick Conley

Patrick Conley was born, raised, and baptized in Wisconsin in a Protestant tradition. After meeting his wife, Kendra, through an Evangelical ministry at the University of Minnesota, they entered the Catholic Church in 2010. They listened to Relevant Radio, specifically The Inner Life, while preparing to enter the Church. Conley now holds a degree in theology from Oxford University and has served the Church in both academic theology and grassroots pastoral ministry. Conley teaches religion classes in a Catholic elementary school, serves as his parish Director of Religious Education, and is in formation for the permanent diaconate. He also hosts Practicing Catholic on Relevant Radio, exclusive to the Minneapolis area’s airwaves, and is a traveling presenter for the Catherine of Siena Institute apostolate. He lives in rural Wisconsin with his wife and their bulldogs, Georgie and Bingley.