Welcome to the scene where Pope Francis meets with Belgian university professors at the renowned Catholic University of Leuven. In a powerful address, the Pope urges researchers to relentlessly seek truth and expand the boundaries of knowledge.
As part of his Apostolic Journey to Belgium, Pope Francis took a momentous trip from Brussels to Leuven to engage with the country’s esteemed university professors. The setting for this meeting was the Catholic University of Leuven, which is marking its impressive 600th anniversary this year.
Pope Francis emphasized the vital role that Catholic universities play in providing integral formation for their students. This formation equips students to interpret the present and prepare for the future. He underscored the importance of universities in driving the pursuit of ideas and inspiration, as cultural formation is an ever-evolving process.
The Pope highlighted the significant role of Catholic universities in promoting the passion for seeking truth, thereby serving human progress. He noted the modern society’s tendency to shy away from seeking truth and instead settle for a comfortable existence that blurs distinctions and relativizes everything.
Pope Francis urged the academia to move past boundaries, including the limitations of soulless rationalism that reduces everything to the material and visible. He called for a return to wonder and marvel, directing our gaze towards the profound questions of existence.
In sharing a Biblical story about expansion and seeking grace, the Pope encouraged university professors to widen their horizons and remain open to the world’s challenges. He commended the Catholic University of Leuven for their welcoming attitude towards refugees, stressing the importance of a culture that transcends boundaries and fosters inclusivity.
As the address drew to a close, Pope Francis implored the professors to keep the flame of curiosity alive and to never lose sight of the pursuit of truth. He urged them to be restless in their quest for knowledge and compassionate in their care for the vulnerable.
