Turn conflict into cooperation, commitment, pope tells university leaders

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Take advantage of conflicts since they require people to come together and cooperate, Pope Francis told a delegation from Loyola University Chicago.

“Thank God there are conflicts,” he said during an audience with the group at the Vatican May 20. “Conflicts cause us to walk in mazes, and you get out of a maze from above and not on your own. Conflict encourages us to cooperate.”

“Persevere on this path, which teaches you to cultivate a critical sense, the capacity for discernment and sensitivity to global challenges,” he said in his address to members of the board of trustees of the Jesuit university.

Because Loyola University is inspired by the tradition of the Society of Jesus, he said, that tradition “calls you to search for the truth through deep reflection, attentive listening and courageous action.”

“Always ask yourselves the question: How can our university contribute to making our world a better place? Always strive for the best!” he said.

Academic institutions play an essential role in a world marked by rapid change and increasingly complex challenges, he said.

Not only must they form people’s minds, he said, but they also should help them develop “generous hearts and consciences attentive to the dignity of every person” as well as prepare people to be “able to engage with reality and the demands of the times.”

“Education is not just a transmission of knowledge, but a commitment and method of forming people who are able to embody the values of reconciliation and justice in every aspect of their lives,” the pope said.

He also encouraged the board members to cultivate their intellectual curiosity, a spirit of cooperation and a deep sensitivity to the challenges of the day while “carrying on the legacy of St. Ignatius.”

“We need men and women who are ready to put their skills at the service of others, to work for a future in which each person can achieve his or her potential and live with dignity and respect, and in which the world can find peace,” he said.