Pope Tells Educators ‘Disarm Your Words’

Vatican city: Pope Leo XIV told educators to disarm their words and opt for meekness in an Apostolic Letter on education Tuesday.

According to Ansa News Agency, the Pope, in his Apostolic Letter on Education, “Drawing New Maps of Hope,” makes an appeal to all educational communities: “Disarm your words, lift your gaze, guard your heart.” He emphasized that education should progress not through contentious debates but through a gentle approach that involves listening.

The letter further advises educators to “lift your gaze” and encourages them to reflect on their direction and purpose. The Pope urged educational communities to prioritize relationships over opinions and individuals over programs, cautioning against wasting time and opportunities. He also highlighted that no algorithm could substitute the essence of poetry, irony, and love, and stressed the importance of not neglecting the poor in Catholic schools.

Pope Leo XIV also expressed concern about the unprecedented fragility faced by children and young people today. The Apostolic Letter was released as part of the Jubilee of Education.