The Secret to Joy
St. Francis of Assisi shows us the way.
By: Fr. John Bohrer and Joseph Stoutzenberger
Joy is the second of the twelve “fruits of the Holy Spirit,” after charity, and yet we have many examples of sad, resolute, and suffering saints. Fortunately, there are also joyful and laughing saints. Philip Neri had a great sense of humor. Teresa of Avila famously said, “God deliver us from sour-faced saints” as she led her Carmelite sisters in dance.
Francis of Assisi was one of those joyful and laughing saints. In fact, he seems to have radiated joy throughout his life; it was perhaps...
THIS CONTENT IS AVAILABLE WITH A SUBSCRIPTION
Access all Mass readings, Order of Mass, daily meditations and articles, as well as special resources, by becoming a subscriber. View subscription options.
Special Offer: Two week free web-only trial subscription. Sign up now.
Existing Print & Web-Only Subscribers: Login for full access.
Comments