- 04 June, 2026
Vatican City, June 04, 2026: Pope Leo XIV has urged Catholic universities to cultivate in students not only a love for learning but also a deep passion for Christ, saying education must help young people recognise truth and shape their lives accordingly.
Addressing a delegation of the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities from the United States at the Vatican on Wednesday, the Pope said Catholic education must guide students towards “the Truth that is Christ Himself”.
“Unless Catholic education instils in students a true passion for the truth — and not only intellectual truth, but the Truth that is Christ Himself — we can hardly expect people to be willing to put forth the effort required to recognise truth and adapt one’s life accordingly,” Pope Leo said.
The Holy Father reminded Catholic institutions that they are called to be “a living environment” where the Christian vision influences every discipline and interaction. He encouraged university leaders to transmit the Gospel authentically so that students may encounter Christ and discover the unity that truth provides.
Reflecting on the challenges facing education today, Pope Leo highlighted the increasing fragmentation of knowledge. He noted that while many people become experts in specific fields, they often struggle to find direction in life and lack a broader vision that connects knowledge with the deeper desires of the human heart.
The Pope said Catholic colleges and universities have the important responsibility of guiding students beyond academic success and career goals. He encouraged educators to help young people “seek and love the truth, reflect on the meaning of life and recognise the dignity of every person.”
Referring to recent technological developments, especially artificial intelligence, Pope Leo acknowledged the challenges AI creates for educators in assessing students’ work. He called on teachers to adapt creatively while ensuring the integral human formation of those entrusted to them.
He stressed the need for students to engage positively with new technologies while developing their ability to reason, think critically and use their God-given talents responsibly.
Concluding his address, Pope Leo expressed hope that Catholic institutions would continue the Church’s evangelising mission by offering students the “sound doctrine” that serves as a lasting foundation for their lives and the future of their nation.
Courtesy: Vatican News
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