On International Day of Happiness, people around the world come together to celebrate the pursuit of happiness and well-being. As Catholics, we recognise that true and lasting happiness is found in our relationship with God and living out our faith. Let us explore how we can cultivate a sense of joy and fulfillment.

In a world that often equates happiness with material possessions, success, or fleeting pleasures, we are reminded by our faith that true happiness comes from God alone. As Psalm 16:11 tells us, “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” Our relationship with God, nurtured through prayer, sacraments and acts of love, is the foundation of our happiness.

Jesus himself taught us the path to true happiness in his Sermon on the Mount, where he proclaimed the Beatitudes. These teachings offer a radical vision of happiness that is countercultural and rooted in humility, compassion and righteousness. As Catholics, we are called to embody the virtues outlined in the Beatitudes and find joy in serving others, seeking justice and living according to God’s will.

Our faith calls us to live in communion with one another, sharing in each other’s joys and sorrows. Through our participation in the life of the Church and engagement with our communities, we experience the joy of fellowship an solidarity. Service to others, especially the marginalised and vulnerable, also brings profound fulfillment and happiness as we imitate Christ’s example of selfless love.

Central to the Catholic understanding of happiness is the practice of gratitude and contentment. Recognising and appreciating the blessings in our lives, both big and small, fosters a sense of joy and abundance. Even amidst life’s challenges and trials, we can find reasons to be grateful for God’s love and presence in our lives.

On this International Day of Happiness, let us pause to reflect on the true source of joy and fulfillment in our lives. As Catholics, we are called to seek happiness not in worldly pursuits, but in our relationship with God and our commitment to living out our faith. Let us embrace the Beatitudes as our guide to happiness and strive to cultivate joy through prayer, community, service and gratitude. In doing so, we bear witness to the transformative power of faith and spread God’s love and happiness to all.

Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart. – Psalm 37:4