Pope Leo XIV has called on the Brothers of Christian Schools to become “beacons of presence and empathy” for young people grappling with the emotional toll of modern life.
Speaking to hundreds of priests and nuns from the global Catholic teaching order, the newly elected pontiff underscored the rising isolation, individualism, and emotional instability affecting youth today. He cited a global decline in meaningful relationships, reflection, and dialogue — both in schools and at home — as a root cause of growing loneliness.
“We think of the isolation caused by relationship patterns increasingly marked by superficiality, individualism, and emotional instability,” Pope Leo XIV said. “These are realities young people carry even into the classroom.”
The speech marked a reflective moment during celebrations of the 300th anniversary of the institute’s papal recognition by Pope Benedict XIII in 1725.
Founded in 1680, the Brothers of Christian Schools operate Catholic schools in over 80 countries, including 22 across Africa. The order also runs six universities on the continent — in Kenya, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, and Madagascar — focusing on education, engineering, and healthcare.
Beyond academics, the Brothers are deeply engaged in community outreach, offering vocational training and essential services to marginalized groups.
As the Catholic Church adapts to new global challenges, Pope Leo XIV urged educators to “listen more deeply” and “rebuild the social bonds that are quietly eroding.”
“You are not just teachers,” he said, “you are bridges — between silence and understanding, between loneliness and community.”
