The story of Jesus Christ begins with profound joy!
In her annual Christmas Message, Bishop Burkat celebrates God’s gift of joy, based on the Mary’s visit to Elizabeth in which John the Baptist lept for joy in her womb at the nearness of the yet-to-be-born Savior.
"Throughout the Gospel narrative the unmistakable and immeasurable gift of joy is present. Not the happiness, or chirpiness, or even giddiness that we so often seek through our Christmas festivities, but a deep and profound and lasting joy. Happiness may be temporal — but joy is eternal."