Mary Cole
Trials and Triumphs of Faith
"Trials and Triumphs of Faith" by Mary Cole is a memoir written during the late 19th century that recounts the author's personal journey through suffering and spiritual awakening. The narrative focuses on Sister Mary Cole's life, detailing her struggles with physical afflictions and her eventual healing by divine intervention. It emphasizes her steadfast faith and the transformative power of God in her life, encouraging readers to reflect on their own spiritual journeys and the importance of trust in divine grace. The opening of the book sets the tone for Mary Cole's inspirational story. It begins with a preface highlighting that the lives of ordinary people, when touched by God, can have profound significance within the church's history. Cole details her ancestry and early years of hardship, including severe health issues from a young age, which contributed to a life of pain and melancholy. Readers are introduced to Cole's reflective nature and deep spirituality, which was nurtured by her loving Christian mother. As she recalls her difficult childhood and early afflictions, the groundwork for her later triumphs is established, suggesting that her faith and experiences will ultimately lead to a significant personal transformation.