Smutek pocieszony. J. Ratzingera/Benedykta XVI traktat o radości
Sorrow Consoled. Tract on Joy by J. Ratzinger/Benedict XVI

Summary/Abstract: The hard facts of sin, evil, pain and – finally – death oppose the human desire and striving for joy. The severity and gravity of earthly existence and its finiteness question the possibility of experiencing authentic joy, its legitimacy and even moral integrity. Unlike the efforts of civilization aimed at ensuring a sorrow-free existence for humans, the phenomenon of the Christian answer lies in the recognition of the necessity of the co-existence of sorrow and joy, while trusting in God. Consequently, the Church does not look for joy outside sorrow, in rejecting it, but – in the spirit of Passover – in the transition from death to life. The dialogue between God and man in the New Testament begins with the words announcing the good news: ‘Rejoice!’ Joy is possible since God grants the right to it, also now, among the shadows of evil: He redeems the world through His death and Resurrection and sends the Spirit – Paraclete – Comforter. J. Ratzinger/Benedict XVI sees a vital task for the Church in celebrating the Eucharist and being sent to serve as the minister of God’s mercy in the awakening of this authentic joy that cannot be lost. The guarantee of this joy is the future in God, which makes the hardship of existence tolerable and is an instrument and internal power of the truth.

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