Pope Francis released an apostolic exhortation this week calling all to holiness in a culture that does not value spirituality.
Published April 9, Gaudete et exsultate, or “Rejoice and be glad – The call to holiness in today’s world,” is Francis’ third apostolic exhortation.
The 44-page exhortation explains that holiness is the mission of every Christian, and gives practical advice for living out the call to holiness in ordinary, daily life, encouraging the practice of the Beatitudes and performing works of mercy.
“To be holy does not require being a bishop, a priest or a religious. We are frequently tempted to think that holiness is only for those who can withdraw from ordinary affairs to spend much time in prayer. That is not the case. We are all called to be holy by living our lives with love and by bearing witness in everything we do, wherever we find ourselves,” Pope Francis writes.
The Vatican also released this video this week highlighting the exhortation and showcasing its relevance to all people.
In the piece, the Holy Father, in a very Jesuit way, calls the faithful to find the path God lays out for them:
“The important thing is that each believer discern his or her own path, that they bring out the very best of themselves, the most personal gifts that God has placed in their hearts, rather than hopelessly trying to imitate something not meant for them.”
Read Gaudete et exsultate here.