Pope Francis this morning released an apostolic exhortation titled Gaudete et Exsultate ("Rejoice and Be Glad"). The 98-page teaching document focuses on how Christians can be holy in today's world.
The document is written in a personal tone, culminating in the final chapter with a long reflection on the need for Christians to practice discernment, or to listen to what God is calling them to do with their lives. NCR's Joshua J. McElwee reported on the document, which also explores the feminine genius, the Beatitudes as "identity card" for Christians, and the dangers of "verbal violence" in our digital lives.
While most folks have yet to dive into the pages of the new document, Catholic Twitter is already abuzz with opinions and favorite quotes.
NCR's Heidi Schlumpf noted that some have already seemed to gravitate toward certain passages or themes (although we all know it can be hard to be nice on social media).
Francis is known for his footnotes, and he doesn't fail to deliver with this document, notes Fr. Thomas Rosica of Salt and Light Media.
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Others lamented Francis' familiar reference to the "genius of woman."
One theologian shares some favorite lines—and some possible viral hashtags.
A Catholic author muses: Has Pope Francis seen the #HolyOrdinary hashtag?
In the end, the message of this papal document is clear.
For more hot takes on the new apostolic exhortation, check out #GaudeteetExsultate on Twitter. Stay tuned to NCRonline.org for forthcoming analysis and reporting on this document.
