WHITOUT HAPPINESS THERE IS NO GOSPEL. THEOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF AN ANTHROPOLOGICAL FACT

Abstract

Considering the mistaken but often very common idea of a certain dichotomy bet-ween historical happiness and eternal salvation, this article goes through some of the reasons of this persistent belief. And it shows some aspects that should be considered more thoroughly in order to assert with more conviction the harmony between these two moments coming together in just one human fullness. (1) The dual tension between historical and transcendental happiness, recovered for the catholic conscience by the Second Vatican Council in light of the unity of the human vocation; (2) joy, as the core of the Gospel, a theme on which Pope Francis has insisted upon, one which should be harmonious with the fundamental needs of humanity; and (3) the need of accentuating on God´s loving image, taking into account an authentic trinitarian thought, avoiding inadequate doctrine and catechesis concerning God. The theme of this article has been mildly reflected in theology.