Today, we are reflecting on the life and impact of Pope Francis, who died today at the age of 88. While we know of the Pope’s life in faith, he led a fairly regular life before stepping into the highest role of the Catholic Church. For instance, did you know, he was briefly a high school teacher? Francis's educational journey is a multifaceted one, reflecting a blend of technical training, philosophical studies, and theological formation. 

Early Education and Technical Training:

• Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis attended Don Bosco, a school recognized by the Catholic Church, in Argentina. He then attended a technical secondary school, Escuela Técnica Industrial Nº 27 Hipólito Yrigoyen, where he graduated with a diploma as a chemical technician. This early training provided him with a practical, grounded perspective.   

Religious Formation and Jesuit Studies:

• • He entered the Jesuit novitiate in 1958, marking the beginning of his extensive religious education.   

  • He studied humanities in Santiago, Chile, and later earned a licentiate (equivalent to a master's degree) in philosophy from the Colegio de San José in San Miguel, Argentina.    

  • He obtained a degree in theological studies from the Colegio of San José.   

  • He also undertook further spiritual training in Alcalá de Henares, Spain.   

  • Bergoglio spent time in Ireland at the Milltown Institute of Theology and Philosophy, Dublin, to study English.

  • He also spent time in Germany at the Sankt Georgen Graduate School of Philosophy and Theology.

Life as a Teacher:

• After his initial studies and before fully dedicating himself to theological pursuits, he spent two years working as a high school teacher in Argentina, where he taught literature and psychology at the Colegio de la Inmaculada Concepción, a high school in Santa Fe, and later at the Colegio del Salvador in Buenos Aires.   

• This experience as a high school teacher likely provided him with valuable insights into the lives of young people, the challenges of education, and the importance of communication and mentorship. It would have honed his ability to explain complex ideas in an accessible way and to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds – skills that have undoubtedly served him well in his pastoral and leadership roles within the Church.

• While his time as a formal high school teacher was relatively brief, it stands as a significant chapter in his early life, contributing to the rich tapestry of experiences that shaped the man who would eventually become Pope Francis. 

Emphasis on Holistic Education:

• • Pope Francis's educational background demonstrates a commitment to a well-rounded education, encompassing both technical skills and a deep understanding of philosophy and theology.   

  • His views on education, as expressed in his teachings, emphasize the importance of nurturing the whole person, fostering critical thinking, and promoting social responsibility. 

In essence, Pope Francis's education has been a lifelong process, shaping his worldview and approach to leadership. His direct engagement with young minds in an educational setting offered a unique perspective on his understanding of human development and the formative power of education. Each stop on his educational journey shaped who he was as a person and the impact he had on the world for generations to come.