The full text, with commentary, of Pope Francis’s Apostolic Exhortation Gaudate et Exsultate. In his new apostolic exhortation, Pope Francis offers an inspiring reminder of the universal call to holiness and a practical guide about how to pursue it. While we draw inspiration from the official saints of the church, it falls to each believer to “discern his or her own path . . . rather than hopelessly trying to imitate something not meant for them.” This is the mission that confronts each Christian: to discover and live out “the message that God wants to speak to the world” by our lives.

In his typical fashion, Pope Francis uses his theme to address dangers in the Church, particularly in those who would transform the Church “into a museum piece or the possession of a select few.” The true path to holiness, he notes, was offered by Christ in the Beatitudes: a virtual “identity card” for Christians. In clear and challenging terms he applies these Gospel values to the challenges of our world.

This edition includes reflections by Robert Ellsberg, Publisher of Orbis Books and author of The Saints’ Guide to Happiness and James Martin, SJ, author of My Life with the Saints.