Rejoice Always… Even When Life Hurts 12.14.25

2025-12-17

What does it mean to rejoice when life feels overwhelming? In this homily, we look at two saints who both experienced prison — St. John the Baptist and St. Paul — and ask an important question: Why does one doubt, while the other says, “Rejoice always”? The difference is the Holy Spirit. Through baptism, we are given the gift of the Holy Spirit — and one of His greatest gifts is joy. Not happiness that depends on circumstances, but a deep joy that remains even in suffering...

What does it mean to rejoice when life feels overwhelming?

In this homily, we look at two saints who both experienced prison — St. John the Baptist and St. Paul — and ask an important question:

Why does one doubt, while the other says, “Rejoice always”?

The difference is the Holy Spirit.

Through baptism, we are given the gift of the Holy Spirit — and one of His greatest gifts is joy. Not happiness that depends on circumstances, but a deep joy that remains even in suffering.

This Gaudete (Rejoicing) Sunday reminder challenges us to ask:

👉 Does joy radiate from us — even in difficult seasons?

May the joy of the Holy Spirit be visible in our hearts, our faces, and our lives, drawing others closer to Jesus Christ and His Church.

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