Richard Rohr: How to be Happy

Sell all your possessions. Fast every week. Pray every day.

You'd expect a man of God who has taken vows of poverty and chastity to prescribe these sorts of things for those who want to be happy. But Richard Rohr, a Franciscan friar and Catholic priest whose latest book examines the life and message of St Francis, doesn't reduce happiness to a formula or religious magic bullet.

Instead, the author, speaker and influence on the likes of Brian McLaren and Rob Bell says that happiness is "always an inside job". In this short exclusive video for ChristianToday, Father Richard says that the next drink or meal can never be a source of true happiness and even challenges us to consider whether the question, "how can I be happy?" is the best one to ask.

Pope Francis also recently revealed his top ten secrets to happiness but we think you'll find Father Richard's advice simpler and even more challenging.

related articles
What does it mean to be happy?
What does it mean to be happy?

What does it mean to be happy?

Clergy happiness: \'It\'s the faith and hope that keep us going\'
Clergy happiness: 'It's the faith and hope that keep us going'

Clergy happiness: 'It's the faith and hope that keep us going'

Kay Warren: Health and wealth will ruin you but so will following Jesus
Kay Warren: Health and wealth will ruin you but so will following Jesus

Kay Warren: Health and wealth will ruin you but so will following Jesus

\'Please stop\': tearful Pope Francis pleads for peace
'Please stop': tearful Pope Francis pleads for peace

'Please stop': tearful Pope Francis pleads for peace

News
US criticises prosecution of pro-life campaigner over silent prayer near abortion clinic
US criticises prosecution of pro-life campaigner over silent prayer near abortion clinic

The US State Department has said it is closely monitoring the prosecution of a Christian woman who prayed silently in an abortion clinic buffer zone. 

Over £900,000 awarded to help UK churches stay open amid growing funding pressures
Over £900,000 awarded to help UK churches stay open amid growing funding pressures

Hundreds of churches across the UK are receiving vital financial support to remain open and safe, as rising repair costs and shrinking funding streams place historic buildings under increasing strain.

How to make the most of the quiet period between Christmas and New Year
How to make the most of the quiet period between Christmas and New Year

Make the most of these last days of the year to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with God.

US carries out strikes on Islamic State in Nigeria over violence against Christians
US carries out strikes on Islamic State in Nigeria over violence against Christians

The US military has conducted airstrikes against Islamic State (IS) militants in Nigeria over the violent "targeting" of Christians.