Pope Francis has shared his personal experience of Christian joy during his recent hospitalization and convalescence, emphasizing that it “does not come from comfortable solutions to problems” nor ” avoids the Cross.”
In a message to the participants of the Second Synodal Assembly of the Churches in Italy, the Pope explained that Christian joy is a gift from God that springs from the certainty that the Lord never abandons us alone.
The Pope described Christian joy as “never exclusive, but always inclusive,” and emphasized that it is “for everyone.” He noted that it takes place in everyday life and is characterized by a welcoming style.
Pope Francis urged the participants to be guided by the Holy Spirit in their deliberations and to move forward with “joy and wisdom.” He also encouraged them to implement the conclusions of the Synod on Synodality in their dioceses over the next three years.