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GAUDETE ET EXSULTATE
Gaudete et Exsultate (Rejoice and Be Glad) is an
apostolic exhortation by Pope Francis, published in 2018,
with the aim of inspiring all Christians to embrace holiness in
their daily lives. The document emphasizes that holiness is
not a lofty ideal meant only for saints or religious
professionals but is a calling for everyone, regardless of their
state in life. Pope Francis insists that holiness can be lived
out in simple, ordinary circumstances, through small acts of
love, kindness, and faithfulness.
The document is structured around five key chapters:
1. The Call to Holiness
Pope Francis explains that every Christian is called to
holiness. He draws from scripture and tradition to illustrate
how holiness is not about being perfect but about being
deeply united with God. Holiness is lived in the present
moment, in the realities of daily life, and through small,
consistent gestures of love and service.
2. Two Subtle Enemies of Holiness
The Pope identifies two modern spiritual threats: First,
Gnosticism, which overemphasizes intellectual knowledge of
faith and detaches it from lived experience, reducing faith to
abstract theories. Second, Pelagianism, which focuses
excessively on human effort and minimizes the role of God’s
grace, promoting a sense of self-reliance and perfectionism.
He stresses that true holiness relies on God’s grace, humility,
and trust rather than on human merit alone.
3. In the Light of the Master
This chapter focuses on the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12) as
the framework for living a holy life. Pope Francis describes
how the Beatitudes challenge Christians to be humble,
merciful, just, peace-making, and compassionate. Living the
Beatitudes is a practical way to grow in holiness and to
witness God’s love in the world.
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4. Signs of Holiness in Today’s World
Pope Francis highlights practical traits of holiness that are
particularly relevant today, such as perseverance in trials,
joy and a sense of humor, boldness in proclaiming the
Gospel, and living in community. He also emphasizes the
importance of prayer and an active life of service.
5. Spiritual Combat, Vigilance, and Discernment
The final chapter addresses the reality of spiritual struggle in
the journey toward holiness. Pope Francis reminds Christians
that they must remain vigilant against evil, rely on God’s
grace, and practice discernment to recognize God’s will in
their lives. Prayer, the sacraments, and a close relationship
with Jesus are essential for spiritual strength.
Throughout Gaudete et Exsultate, Pope Francis
underlines that holiness is deeply rooted in love for God and
neighbor. He stresses that true holiness is marked by mercy,
compassion, and a commitment to justice, especially for the
poor and marginalized. Importantly, holiness does not
separate Christians from the world but calls them to engage
with it, transforming society through love and humility.
In essence, the document serves as a guide for modern
Christians, inviting them to a joyful, authentic, and practical
path of holiness, deeply rooted in the Gospel and accessible
to all.
Understand the text above and answer the questions
below!
1. Who is the author of Gaudete et Exsultate and when was it
published?
2. What is the main purpose of Gaudete et Exsultate?
3. What are two spiritual threats to holiness mentioned in the
document?
4. Which Gospel passage does Pope Francis use as a
framework for living a holy life?
5. What are some practical traits of holiness that Pope
Francis highlights in today’s world?
