St Paul VI and the Joy of the Gospel: From Humanae Vitae to Pope Francis

Abstract

Paul VI is a forgotten, sometimes maligned pope, but his insight and influence are greater than often realized. This article explains his insight and influence by dividing his pontificate into three five-year periods: the first optimistic and prolific, the second pessimistic and uncommunicative, but the third newly hopeful. The first period ends with dissent over the natural-law teaching of Humanae Vitae. The third blooms forth with Evangelii Nuntiandi, where he discovers the necessity of proclaiming Jesus Christ. Popes John Paul II, Benedict, and Francis have each embraced this insight.