Gaudete et Exsultate (Rejoice and Be Glad) Apostolic Exhortation

In his third Apostolic Exhortation, Gaudete et exultate (“Rejoice and Be Glad”), published April 9, 2018, Pope Francis' aims “to repropose the call to holiness in a practical way for our own time, with all its risks, challenges and opportunities" (No. 2).

Gaudete et exultate is organized in five chapters:

1) The Call to Holiness

2) Two Subtle Enemies of Holiness

3) In the Light of the Master

4) Signs of Holiness in Today's World

5) Spiritual Combat, Vigilance and Discernment

Pope Francis explains that the Lord addresses to each person a call to holiness. The response to this call is particular; each believer must discern his or her own path in order to bring out the very best of themselves (cf. No. 11). The Holy Father warns against gnosticism and pelagianism before explaining, with the help of the Beatitudes, how to be a good Christian. In the fourth chapter, Pope Francis highlights five “great expressions of love for God and neighbor”, which he considers important “in the light of certain dangers and limitations present in today's culture” (No. 111), namely: perseverance, patience and meekness, joy and a sense of humour, boldness and passion, a sense of community, and constant prayer. The Apostolic Exhortation concludes with the reminder that “Christian life is a constant battle”, but that the “battle is sweet, for it allows us to rejoice each time the Lord triumphs in our lives” (No. 158).