As an educator, it is essential to familiarize students with various global figures, especially those who contribute significantly to the moral, spiritual, and social aspects of our society. Consequently, learning about the current Pope, Pope Francis, serves as an excellent avenue for broadening their knowledge and understanding. This article aims to provide educators with a comprehensive guide for teaching students about Pope Francis and his modern-day significance.

Background:

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis has served as the head of the Roman Catholic Church since March 13, 2013. He is the first Pope from the Americas and hails from a Jesuit background. Before becoming a priest, he pursued careers in various fields such as chemistry and teaching.

Teaching Strategies:

1. Interactive Timeline:

Create an interactive timeline of significant milestones in Pope Francis’s life, focusing on his time as Archbishop of Buenos Aires and his papacy. This timeline will help students understand the chronology of his life events.

2. Documentary Films:

Show students documentaries and/or short films about Pope Francis’s life story and humanitarian efforts to give them a visual representation of his work.

3. Research Project:

Encourage students to conduct research projects on various initiatives championed by Pope Francis that appeal to them or covering specific themes such as peace-building or environmental advocacy.

4. Guest Speakers:

Invite scholars or guest speakers who are familiar with or have worked closely with Pope Francis to offer firsthand accounts and insights into his personality, objectives, and influence on global issues.

5. Class Discussions:

Organize group discussions where students can share their thoughts and opinions on topics related to Pope Francis. This strategy encourages critical thinking and reflection on the contemporary issues that new generations face.

Pope Francis’s Key Teachings and Beliefs:

1. Humility and Simplicity:

The current Pope stands out for his emphasis on the importance of humility, simplicity, and service. Educators should focus on teaching their students about these values that Pope Francis exhibits and implement them as aspects of daily life.

2. Social Justice:

Pope Francis is known for advocating for social justice, which includes income inequality, poverty alleviation, and human rights issues. Educators can inspire students to think about ways they too can get involved in local and global initiatives to address these challenges.

3. Environmental Stewardship:

Laudato Si’, Pope Francis’s 2015 encyclical on the environment, emphasizes the urgency to protect the environment and promotes sustainable living. Teachers can engage students in discussions about how they can adopt environmentally-friendly practices that lead towards a greener world.

4. Interfaith Dialogue:

Pope Francis has actively promoted interfaith dialogue to foster understanding and cooperation among different religious communities. Encourage students to explore various religious beliefs around them, promoting acceptance and respect for other faiths.