In a very short time Pope Leo has published a second Apostolic Letter on the meaning and purpose of Christian education. In his letter he emphasizes that education must refer to the whole person, not only a person’s mind. He wants to make sure that Christian education appeals to the heart. It is the heart that is the center of the whole person. It is in the heart that a person’s relationship with Christ is nurtured and developed.
Pope Leo gives us three areas that are very important at this time. He wants young people to develop their interior life. They need to discern and dialog with their conscience and with God. He wants education to use technology and especially AI to place the person first in its development. He wants to educate people in the universal language of reconciliation and bridge building both in method and content.
Our pope, while referring to the young, is addressing his letter to everyone who is making spiritual growth an essential component of their lives.
- What was significant to you in your Christian education?
- What is your reaction to what the pope is saying?
- In what ways do you consider yourself to be a Christian educator?
O God, help me find you in my heart, mind, emotions, and personality.