Rejoice and Be Glad

In this newest papal exhortation, released on April 9, 2018, and entitled Gaudete et Exsultate (Rejoice and Be Glad), Pope Francis looks at the call to holiness in today’s world, which is something to which we all can aspire. No matter who we are, young or old and no matter what our vocation, it is in the very act of living—with humility, kindness, and mercy—that we can become holy. Holiness is in everyday life, with its risks, challenges, and opportunities, but we do not have to settle for a mediocre existence. Rather, the pope challenges us to find a practical holiness, a “next door” holiness. The pope’s overarching message here, and the theme of his papacy, is this: We must cultivate seeing and acting with mercy. As the pope writes, “A person’s perfection is measured not by the information or knowledge they possess, but by the depth of their charity.” Chapter One: The Call to Holiness Chapter Two: 2 Subtle Enemies of Holiness Chapter Three: In the Light of the Master Chapter Four: Signs of Holiness in Today’s World Chapter Five: Spiritual Combat, Vigilance, and Discernment Chapter summaries, along with a study guide by Mark-David Janus, CSP, make this an approachable, uplifting volume. †