In Pope Francis’ apostolic exhortation, Evangelii Gaudium (The Joy of the Gospel), the Holy Father invites individuals and communities to a profound pastoral conversion. He writes: “Before all else, the Gospel invites us to respond to the God of love who saves us, to see God in others and to go forth from ourselves to seek the good of others” (EG, #39).

Pope Francis calls attention to complacency but offers hope and encouragement. His words challenge believers to move beyond self-imposed boundaries and become zealous missionaries for Christ. The pope emphasizes that life in the Spirit is opposed to an anxious, guilt-ridden way of life. He states: “That is no way to live a dignified and fulfilled life,” adding, “It is not God’s will for us” (#2). Instead, he advocates for a meaningful, joy-filled life as taught by Christ.

In his final chapter, Pope Francis expresses his desire for a new chapter of evangelization filled with fervor and joy. He acknowledges that no words of encouragement are sufficient unless driven by the Holy Spirit: “How I long for the right words to stir up enthusiasm... Yet I realize that no words of encouragement will be enough unless the fire of the Holy Spirit burns in our hearts” (#261). He challenges everyone to be “Spirit-filled evangelizers,” never hesitating to proclaim the Good News (#259).

The pope expands on traditional notions of missionaries, stating that all are called to bring Jesus’ Good News in various contexts—homes, workplaces, parishes, and neighborhoods. Through baptism and confirmation, believers receive gifts from the Holy Spirit meant for fulfilling Christ’s mission: “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations...” (Mt 28:19-20).

Addressing concerns about evangelizing within Catholicism’s ethos, Pope Francis simplifies it as guiding those who are spiritually hungry towards Jesus. This mission extends locally and globally.

Pope Francis recognizes that moving into new territories can be uncomfortable but necessary. He describes this mission as integral to one’s identity: “My mission...is not just a part of my life or a badge I can take off... I am a mission on this Earth; that is the reason why I am here in this world” (#273).

He assures believers that despite human frailty, grace from the Holy Spirit empowers them: “Christ...is the well-spring of our hope...He will not deprive us of the help we need...” (#275). Reflecting on pastoral conversion "in a missionary key," he encourages looking towards Mary as an example.

Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin echoes these sentiments in his message encouraging believers towards pastoral conversion.

A selection from Evangelii Gaudium's Chapter One discusses pastoral activity and conversion:

25. Pope Francis emphasizes documents' programmatic significance despite modern disinterest. He urges communities towards pastoral and missionary conversion beyond mere administration.

26. Quoting Paul VI and Vatican II documents, he stresses ecclesial renewal through fidelity to Christ.

27-33. The pope dreams of transforming Church structures for effective evangelization rather than self-preservation. Parishes should adapt creatively while remaining connected with local communities.

Pope Francis calls bishops and Church leaders towards missionary communion within their dioceses while fostering participatory processes aimed at reaching everyone.

Finally, Pope Francis reflects on converting papal ministry itself towards more faithful evangelization practices.

Complete text available at www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/apost_exhortations/documents/papa-francesco_esortazione-ap_20131124_evangelii-gaudium.html

Cardinal Tobin concludes with a prayer invoking Mary’s intercession:

Mary,

Virgin and Mother,

you who welcomed

the word of life

help us proclaim

the good news

of Jesus.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin

Archbishop of Newark

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