April 10, 2016, Third Sunday of Easter
Letter From The Pastor
Dear Parishioners:
How do we maintain Easter joy in a world that does not want us to be joyful for more
than a nanosecond? How can God expect us to forget about the troubles of this world and
even in our personal lives? Society seems to be going to hell in a hand basket and living with
joy is just too much to ask! It does sound too difficult to live a life of joy in the midst of such
circumstances.
I want to take a few moments and address this seeming lack of confidence in God’s
mighty power to bring his love and joy into our hearts. About 99% of the Catholics I know deeply believe that God
is love and joy. They believe that the fullness of heaven will be a place of joy. I do not think I know anyone who
does not believe in a heavenly kingdom of joy.
I do know many people who do not believe in joy during this life; that our life has to be always a walk in the
valley of tears. For many, the tragedies of life steal our joy and lead you or me if not to a state of despair at least
to a far too long depression. So how can I be joyful when life is so bad?
It behooves us to recognize the difference between joy and happiness. In common usage, “joy” and
“happiness” could very well be seen as synonyms. One could say, “I was overjoyed at his coming,” or “I was
happy when he came,” and mean the same thing. However, the words have two distinct meanings and
applications. Even a casual listener would distinguish between “rejoice” and “be happy.” Joy suggests a more
complete, ecstatic, consuming passion than mere happiness. In short, “happiness” can be described as an
emotion, while “joy” is more properly related to a state of one’s being.
Happiness is easily taken away when the “state of well-being” ceases; in times of hardship, trial, or need,
happiness seems elusive. Something more satisfying is needed than the mere pleasure or contentment associated
with happiness.
Joy, in contrast, is defined as an intense and especially ecstatic or exultant happiness or the expression of
such feelings. The antonym of joy is “sorrow.” “Enjoying” (related to happiness) is not the same thing as
“rejoicing.” Joy has several deeper meanings than happiness, which are further clarified in Holy Scriptures. In the
Bible, joy can mean:
1. The response of the soul to a great and wonderful discovery, such as truth or communion with
God — Luke 1:44 — For as soon as I heard the sound of your greeting, the child in my womb
leaped for joy.
2. A personal fullness or sense of completeness in one’s entire life — John 15:11 — These things I
have spoken to you, that My joy may be in you, and your joy may be filled. (cf. also Jn. 17:13)
3. A deep peace which comes from the indwelling of the Holy Spirit within a person, and lasts despite
hardship — John 16:22 — So also you now indeed have sorrow; but I will see you again, and
your heart shall rejoice; and your joy no man shall take from you.
4. The fruit of faith, hope, and love — Hebrews 10:34 — For you both had compassion on them that
were in bands, and took with joy the being stripped of your own goods, knowing that you have
a better and a lasting substance.
Many thanks to Catholic Exchange for the above. It is a good and trustworthy web site.
Easter makes joy an option for you and me. There are times when we will not be happy [death of a loved one,
loss of employment, et al.] but we never have to be joyless. There is never a time when God is not with us —
never a time when all is lost — never a time when there is no hope. Joy is not a Pollyanna mindset, but the reality
that each of us a life of self-worth and dignity as a son or daughter of our Heavenly Father.
The great battle between good and evil has been fought and good won, continues to win and invites us to be
filled with joy and join the winning team. Be joyful.
Pax et bonum,
2
Msgr. Bill