Towards the end of his homily, our deacon had the congregation progress through a litany of saints; in this case, the saints were members of our parish who joined our Father in Heaven this past year. Coming at the end of a discussion about joy, this may have seemed out of place. Instead, it reminded me that those who have passed to the next life are living a new life of joy. Meanwhile, they are watching us, interceding for us, and cheering us on.
Joy surrounds us. Let us rejoice and be glad!