Pope Francis’ first encyclical, “Lumen Fidei” (“The Light of Faith”), is a celebration of Christian faith as the guiding light of a “successful and fruitful life,” inspiring social action as well as devotion to God, and illuminating “every aspect of human existence,” including philosophy and the natural sciences.

Here are excerpts from Pope Francis’ first encyclical, “Lumen Fidei” (“The Light of Faith”), released July 5.

Presenting Pope Francis’ new encyclical and acknowledging how much of it was prepared by retired Pope Benedict XVI, top Vatican officials hailed it as a unique expression of the development of papal teaching and unity in faith.

The only way to truly touch the living Christ is through the tender care of his wounds in the poor, sick and outcasts of today, Pope Francis said.

The Vatican’s financial oversight agency has joined the Egmont Group, an international network of financial information authorities, who cooperate to fight financial crime.

Congo’s bishops called on Catholics to reject any attempts by the current government to modify the constitution and jeopardize democracy.

Don’t let sin and temptation be a trap — flee from evil and don’t look back, Pope Francis said.

Catholic leaders in Poland and Ukraine pledged mutual forgiveness for the deaths of tens of thousands of civilians during World War II.

The cardinals and archbishops who are members of the Congregation for Saints’ Causes met July 2 and, according to Italian news reports, took steps to advance the sainthood causes of Blesseds John Paul II and John XXIII.

Conflicts over natural resources and land rights in places like Peru and Colombia echo similar problems in the United States, said U.S. bishops who visited the two countries in late June.