Joy and Laughter Support a Serious Faith

November 30, 2011 by Elizabeth Scalia

Continued from Page 2

When her nuns would fall into dolors, Saint Teresa of Avila was known to bring out the castanets and encourage dancing. It seems like another way to teach her famous prayer, "Let nothing disturb you; let nothing frighten you..." Your book seems like a practical handbook for living that prayer: how do laughter and trust work together?

Laughter means that you trust that all will work out well, as St. Teresa said. And that even if it doesn't seem to be at the time, you can trust in the God who accompanies you.

Thank you, Father Martin, for taking the time to chat with us on a book that is not only a great bit of entertainment, but wise and helpful encouragement, as well.

My pleasure—and joy!

Visit the Patheos Book Club for more conversation on Between Heaven and Mirth.**

Page: 3 of 3

11/30/2011 5:00:00 AM

Catholic

Book Club

Between Heaven and Mirth

Joy

James Martin

Jesus

Laughter

Roman Catholicism

more at patheos

A Eucharistic Reflection

Kristin Wilson

World Chocolate Day: Celebrating a Popular Sweet Treat

Xavier Scott Preston

'Goliath has cousins'

Fred Clark

Own Your Beliefs

John Beckett

About Elizabeth Scalia

Elizabeth Scalia is a weekly columnist at First Things.

Patheos Logo Patheos Explore the world's faith through different perspectives on religion and spirituality! Patheos has the views of the prevalent religions and spiritualities of the world.

Ad-Free & Subscriber Log-In Subscription Support

Subscription Support Ad-Free & Subscriber Log-In

Follow Patheos