Helen O’Brien, Director of Catholic Education SA, writes from Vatican City.
‘I am writing to you from Rome at the conclusion of the Educating for Today and Tomorrow: A Renewing Passion conference.
On Saturday 21 November at the last session of the conference, Papa Francesco attended and spent approximately an hour with the participants listening to stories of educational work across the globe and responding to questions. It was an amazing experience!
The Pope was anticipated at 11:30 am and we could feel the energy and excitement rising in the hall as the time drew closer. There was a wonderful group of musicians who played rousing music as the crowd stood in expectation. I'm not sure that The Alleluia Chorus from Handel's Messiah was a theologically sound choice of music but it certainly added to the level of excitement!
The Pope entered the Great Hall at the rear and walked through the throng of people. All clapped and cheered. Nuns were standing on seats, children miraculously appeared and the babies were thrust at Pope Francis. He hugged and kissed them all.
He took to the stage and then listened and spoke. We have come to learn that he is a man of the people, very grounded and articulate in his renewed call to work at the margins and for those most in need. Our perceptions are right.
His message continued to demonstrate this theme. He spoke about the Church including education having three languages: the languages of the mind, heart and hands. And that all of these must work together.
He spoke about the Church and education having too much rigidity and that this must change. Where there is rigidity, the doors are closed and nothing can enter or leave. This is not the Church or education system that he wants. He called for greater risk taking (with courage and wisdom) to ensure that there is access for all and especially for those most in need.
The Pope spoke at length about what can happen to leaders within the Church and education: that we all initially respond from a deep sense of mission and for doing good. But that the roles we undertake often consume our time in administration taking us away from the personal encounter with those at the edge and the real mission. He called for us to think deeply about this and orient ourselves such that in our leadership we can see a demonstrable engagement with the marginalised.
He was humorous, thoughtful and joyful.
It was a lovely experience and a privilege’.
Intergenerational playgroups are truly something special — an experience that enriches the lives of both the young and the older members of our community. These playgroups are more than just a space for children to play; they are a vital platform for different generations to come together, share wisdom, and build meaningful relationships.
