Pope at Sophia University in
Japan: Seek, find, and spread Divine Wisdom
Pope Francis visits Sophia University in Tokyo at the
conclusion of his Apostolic Visit to Japan, and affirms that “quality education
should not be the privilege of a few."
By Vatican News
The name of Sophia University means, literally, “University
of Higher Wisdom." Founded by the Society of Jesus in 1913, and located in
the heart of Tokyo, today it is considered one of Japan’s leading private
research universities.
Pope Francis addressed students, professors, and staff of
the University on Tuesday morning, just prior to his departure for Rome.
Study and meditation
Study and meditation, he said, are part of every culture,
and Japanese culture “is rightly proud of its ancient and rich heritage in this
regard.” “Japan has been able to integrate the thinking and the religions
of Asia as a whole, and to create a culture with a well-defined identity”, said
the Pope.
“Since universities continue to be the primary place where
future leaders are trained”, he continued, “it is necessary that a breadth of
knowledge and culture inspire every aspect of the life of educational
institutions, making them ever more inclusive and capable of generating
opportunities and social advancement.”
Shaping a better society
Playing on the Greek word “Sophia”, meaning “Wisdom”, the
Pope said we have always been in need of true Wisdom “in order to manage our
resources in constructive and efficient ways.”
Referring to present-day Japan as a “competitive and
technologically oriented” society, he suggested that Sophia University be a
center not only of intellectual formation, “but also of a place where a better
society and a more hope-filled future can take shape.”
The Ignatian tradition
Pope Francis confirmed that “Sophia University has always
been marked by a humanistic, Christian and international identity.” He
expressed his confidence that this identity would grow stronger, “so that
today’s great technological advances can be put at the service of a more
humane, just and ecologically responsible education.”
The Ignatian tradition, on which Sophia is based, “ought to
inspire professors and students alike to create an atmosphere that fosters
reflection and discernment”, he said. Every graduate student should be able to
face even complex situations knowing his or her conduct is “just and humane,
conscientious and responsible”, showing they are “resolute defenders of the
vulnerable.”
Focusing on young people
The universal Church looks “with hope and interest to young
people worldwide”, affirmed Pope Francis.
Sophia University should not only offer young people an
excellent education, he said, but also allow them to be part of that education:
“offering their insights and sharing their vision and hopes for the future.”
Walking with the poor
Pope Francis stressed how Sophia University’s Christian and
humanistic tradition is fully consonant with “walking with the poor and the
outcasts of our world.”
Marginalized individuals should be “creatively incorporated
into the life and curriculum of the university, in an effort to bring about an
educational approach aimed at reducing distances and disconnects”, said the
Pope. “Quality university education should not be the privilege of a few, but
constantly informed by the effort to serve justice and the common good”, he
added.
Divine Wisdom
Pope Francis concluded his address with words of
encouragement and challenge: “The Lord and his Church are counting on you to
share in the mission of seeking, finding and spreading Divine Wisdom”, he said,
“and thus offering joy and hope to present-day society.”
Watch the full video of the event (with English
commentary):
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