For nearly 500 years, millions of people across the world have experienced the power of a Jesuit education, including Pope Francis. In honor of the Pope’s upcoming historic trip to the United States this September, Saint Peter’s University has partnered with the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities (AJCU) and the other 27 Jesuit colleges and universities in the United States to explore what it means to be #JesuitEducated. Rev. Rocco Danzi, S.J., director of campus ministry at Saint Peter’s University, has shared his reflection on what Jesuit education means to him. Join in on the conversation and share what Jesuit education means to you by using the hashtag #JesuitEducated.
Jesuit education, Pope Francis and his visit to the United States – what are the connections? The heart of our Jesuit educational enterprise is also the heart of Francis’ mission as our Pope: to inspire women and men to believe, serve and love with all of their being. Indeed, it is nothing short of opening the minds and hearts of students, faculty and administration to discover in community and solidarity that they share in the very mission of Christ to transform lives and our world by beginning with the individual.
Jesuit education is centered on the formation of the whole person. It challenges us to question, expand beyond our previously held comfort zones and move out to the furthest frontiers of the imagination and greatest needs of our times. It seeks to always invite people into a two-fold dynamic that insists upon reflection and prayer, but ultimately demands action. The pedagogical movement first happens within, but is not yet complete until it leads to action. Hearts and minds are stirred and then we become engaged in the work of justice and peace.
Pope Francis is clearly a product and participant in this Jesuit educational enterprise. He keeps his message clear and uncomplicated: it is all about Christ, trusting in his love and mercy and hearing his call to love and serve. His visit to the United States is meant to inspire all who gather and jam the streets of our cities to see him. Pope Francis is offering a simple invitation to all to know and love Jesus – a Jesus who desires us and urges all to turn darkness into light and sadness into joy.