Being connected doesn’t always mean being accompanied. And getting good grades doesn’t necessarily mean feeling capable.
Behind many students, high schools, and universities may lie fear of the future, insecurity, and loneliness.
The three challenges the Pope presents to school and university pastoral ministries are cultivating the inner life, developing a person-centered digital culture, and educating for peace.
POPE LEO XIV
Pastoral ministry in schools and universities is called to accompany the slow development of thought, to teach, to discern, and to seek with perseverance. Educational processes require time to mature, an engagement with reality beyond appearances, and a patient journey.
FLASH Many walk the hallways of our schools and universities and perhaps feel anonymous.
The World Health Organization estimates that one in seven adolescents aged 10 to 19 experiences a mental health disorder.
POPE LEO XIV
We live in a performance-driven culture that constantly compares and ranks people, sometimes in a ruthless way. A misguided meritocracy ends up failing to respect people. That’s why many give up before they even try.
Schools and universities should also be welcoming places where students can discover their abilities, engage in social interaction, and bring together people who are willing to walk together.
