The exemption of ultra-Orthodox men from military service dates back to Israel’s founding in 1948 Photo: El País Uruguay

Pope Francis and spiritual coca-colonization in academia

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.”