Holy Spirit Roman Catholic Church

View from the Pew

What is happiness? 

A new car smell? The aroma of freshly baked bread or winning the lottery? These are momentary joys of happiness, but our Catholic faith transcends full-time happiness when we are one with God. 

At the heart of Catholicism lies the belief that true happiness is found in union with God. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches us that humanity's ultimate end is to know, love, and serve God in this life and to be happy with Him forever in the next. This understanding underscores the idea that authentic happiness flows from a deep and intimate relationship with the divine, where we find purpose, meaning, and fulfillment beyond the transient pleasures of the world.

Furthermore, the Catholic tradition emphasizes the importance of virtue in the pursuit of happiness. Through moral teachings and spiritual practices, we are called to cultivate virtues such as love, humility, compassion, and gratitude, which contribute to a flourishing and joyful life. 

The Beatitudes, articulated by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount, serve as a blueprint for the Christian life, outlining attitudes and actions that lead to true blessedness and happiness.

Central to Catholicism is the notion of community and the communal dimension of happiness. Our Church, as the Body of Christ, is a sacred fellowship where we come together to worship, support one another, and participate in the sacramental life. Within our community of faith, we find solidarity, encouragement, and shared values that nourish our spiritual journey and contribute to our overall well-being.

The scent of a new car evokes a sense of fresh joy, much like the celebration of the Eucharist. This sacred ritual serves as a profound source of joy and communion, uniting us in Christ's sacrifice and strengthening our bond as members of God's family.

Moreover, the Catholic Church places a strong emphasis on social justice and the common good, recognizing that authentic happiness is intricately linked to the well-being of others. Through acts of charity, service, and advocacy, we as Catholics are called to alleviate suffering, promote human dignity, and work towards a more just and compassionate society. By engaging in works of mercy and solidarity, individuals not only experience the joy of self-giving love but also contribute to the flourishing of our community and the advancement of God's kingdom on earth. 

Happiness begins with small gestures of kindness, such as saying "good morning" or holding a door open for someone you don't know. These simple acts of kindness not only brighten someone else's day but also contribute to your sense of well-being. They have the power to create a ripple effect, spreading positivity and fostering spiritual fulfillment not just within yourself, but also within those around you.

In conclusion, happiness in the Catholic faith is a multifaceted reality that encompasses spiritual fulfillment, virtuous living, and communal fellowship with social responsibility. Rooted in the love of God and expressed through love of neighbor, true happiness is found in communion with God and others, as we journey together towards the ultimate fulfillment of our human destiny.

Enjoy and be happy!

Joe Marateo