Since the dawn of time, people have desired to find meaning and purpose for their lives. In our age of competing and conflicting philosophies, Catholics unabashedly proclaim a deep confidence in knowing the way, the truth and the life. We fully believe that we are created out of love, for love. We are made for joy.
Claiming this joy means seeking the way of God, who is the source of joy both here on earth and for all eternity. In a world of anxiety and doubt, Jesus is trustworthy. In the midst of daily struggles and surrounded by temptations to follow “another way,” decidedly living God’s will produces an immeasurable gladness within us.
The most foundational reason for our human dignity lies in our call to communion with God. It takes an intentional act on our part to know God, to seek him and then to choose his will.
We have many notable examples from the lives of saints, who were more joyful when they clung to the heart of Christ, even in difficulty. We also have beautiful examples in our neighbors and friends.
Perhaps you know the story of a young husband and wife who were strongly pressured to have an abortion because the doctors feared their child was going to have severe medical issues. The couple refused and chose to endure a difficult pregnancy. Yet, they did not despair. They found joy even though they were concerned about what the future would bring. God’s love never ceases to call us on. That child is now an auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, Bishop Andrew Cozzens.
Our call to joy will be at the heart of our pilgrimage to the World Meeting of Families Sept. 22-28 in Philadelphia. Join us as we celebrate with the Holy Father, Pope Francis.
Be inspired by some of the greatest Catholic speakers and thinkers of our time. Be a part of this historic event, which has the potential to shape the way we live marriage and family for generations.
Stolpestad is the director of the Office for Marriage, Family and Life for the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis.
