(ZENIT News / Vatican City, 11.05.2024).- In a address at the Pontifical Gregorian University, Pope Francis outlined a vision of education rooted in compassion, dialogue, and humility, calling for an approach that moves beyond intellectualism to engage with lived realities. As the university unveiled its new configuration, which now includes the Pontifical Biblical Institute and the Pontifical Oriental Institute, the Pope urged scholars and educators to cultivate an inclusive atmosphere, “less about pedestals and more about shared tables,” advocating a model of “unarmed” dialogue.
Speaking before a students audience, Pope Francis condemned what he described as “spiritual Coca-colonization” in academia. He emphasized the need for a theology that does not become stale or museum-bound but remains dynamic, connected to both the world’s suffering and its hopes. His lecture also underscored the pitfalls of what he called “spiritual Coke” or “the privatization of faith into mere comfort,” warning that the thirst for relevance must not overshadow a deeper quest for truth.
The Pope highlighted the dangers posed by unchecked technological advancement, particularly artificial intelligence. He encouraged students and educators to explore the limits of algorithmic reasoning and to foster values such as irony, humor, and creativity—qualities AI cannot replicate. Education, he suggested, should be a place for “growing seeds of imagination,” grounding intellectual rigor with heart and humanity.
Jesuit Arturo Sosa, Vice Grand Chancellor of the Gregorian, echoed the Pope’s call, emphasizing that scientific and theological study must “open new paths for faith” that engage with and transform society. Rector Mark Lewis reinforced this by pointing out the historic and evolving role of the Gregorian as a place of intellectual and spiritual formation, prepared to address the modern church’s needs in a way that respects diverse perspectives.
A unifying theme of Pope Francis’ address was his vision for an education that not only trains minds but nurtures souls. Reflecting on the global crises, particularly the “madness of war,” he expressed sorrow for the world “aflame with division,” urging the academic community to generate “wisdom born from engagement with the pain and hope of real people.” True education, he insisted, means “getting close enough to be touched by the wounds of the world,” and adopting a humility that disarms intellectual pride.
Francis ended with a call to embrace humor, recalling the prayer of St. Thomas More, who sought “a good digestion and something to digest.” Emphasizing laughter as essential to humanity, he encouraged the academic community to avoid becoming “lost in intellectual labyrinths” and to bring humor to the journey of learning. Before leaving, Pope Francis greeted students and staff and took a moment in quiet prayer, reflecting his profound hope for a future where theology, faith, and humanity walk hand in hand.
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