In his first Apostolic Exhortation (issued 24 Nov 2013) Pope Francis gives us a blueprint of how to live out our lives as Catholic Christians. In his pastoral way his enthusiasm is infectious and motivating. Though he does hold your feet to the fire, he joyfully encourages you to grow in your faith and why - "The joy of the gospel fills the hearts and lives of all who encounter Jesus," he says in the opening paragraph. "Those who accept his offer of salvation are set free from sin, sorrow, inner emptiness and loneliness. With Christ joy is constantly born anew." In his exhortation he goes on to say he wishes to "encourage the Christian faithful to embark upon a new chapter of evangelization marked by this joy, while pointing out new paths for the Church's journey in years to come."
It isn't too long and is quite readable and certainly worthy of your attention. Also, as with most papal documents it's available in English, Italian, Spanish.
Additionally his first Encyclical Lumen Fidei (Light of Faith) is worth reading. Issued 29 June 2013 it was begun by Pope Emeritus Benedict before he stepped down. Pope Francis continued with what Benedict had begun, added his insights and gave honor and credit to his predecessor for what he had begun.
It isn't too long and is quite readable and certainly worthy of your attention. Also, as with most papal documents it's available in English, Italian, Spanish.
Additionally his first Encyclical Lumen Fidei (Light of Faith) is worth reading. Issued 29 June 2013 it was begun by Pope Emeritus Benedict before he stepped down. Pope Francis continued with what Benedict had begun, added his insights and gave honor and credit to his predecessor for what he had begun.