In a recent and thought-provoking letter, Pope Francis has championed the inclusion of novels and poetry in the education of future priests, advocating for a profound shift in how spiritual training is approached. The letter, penned on July 17 and published in eight languages, highlights the critical role of literature in fostering personal growth and spiritual maturity.
A Literary Embrace
Pope Francis, known for his engaging and relatable approach to complex issues, has revealed his own literary inclinations in this influential communication. His admiration for classic tragedians and his affection for authors such as C.S. Lewis, Marcel Proust, T.S. Eliot, and Paul Celan reflect his belief in the transformative power of literature. “I, for my part, love the tragedians,” he wrote. “Because we can all embrace their works as our own, as expressions of our own personal drama.” Francis articulates that through engaging with the tragedies of literature, readers confront their own struggles and vulnerabilities, fostering deeper self-understanding and empathy.
A Call for Change
In his letter, Francis addresses a prevailing attitude within some seminaries where literature is dismissed as a “minor art” and deemed unnecessary for priestly training. He criticizes this perspective as “unhealthy” and detrimental to both intellectual and spiritual development. Emphasizing a need for a “radical change of course,” he calls for a renewed emphasis on the value of literature in priestly formation. According to Francis, engaging with literary works is not merely a form of entertainment but a crucial aspect of holistic education.
The Benefits of Reading
Pope Francis extols the many benefits of reading novels and poetry. He asserts that literature enhances vocabulary, stimulates imagination, and creativity, improves concentration, and mitigates cognitive decline and anxiety. Moreover, he notes that good books can serve as a refuge from less wholesome choices and provide readers with a “vicarious oasis.”
The Pope also underscores the importance of “imaginative empathy”—the ability to see life through the eyes of others. This capacity, he argues, is essential for priests who must navigate diverse human experiences and challenges. By immersing themselves in the perspectives of different characters and authors, future priests can cultivate a deeper understanding of the human condition, which is vital for effective pastoral care.
Francis’s Personal Experience
The Pope’s personal experience with literature adds a layer of authenticity to his advocacy. Between 1964 and 1965, when he was a young Jesuit teacher in Santa Fe, Argentina, Francis taught literature, including works like “El Cid”. He recalls his students’ preference for Spanish poet Federico García Lorca over traditional texts and his decision to allow them to explore their literary interests within the classroom.
Reflecting on this experience, Francis writes that reading should be driven by genuine interest rather than a mere sense of obligation. He criticizes the notion of reading solely because it is deemed essential by others, emphasizing that this approach is counterproductive and fails to foster a genuine appreciation for literature.
A Counter to Digital Distractions
Pope Francis also recognizes the growing concern over digital distractions and the impact of “toxic, superficial and violent fake news” on contemporary society. He appreciates that some seminaries are responding to these challenges by incorporating literature into their curricula, providing a counterbalance to the pervasive influence of screens and sensationalism.
A Vision for the Future
Pope Francis’s letter represents a significant endorsement of literature as a vital component of spiritual and intellectual growth. His call to integrate novels and poetry into priestly training reflects a broader vision of nurturing well-rounded individuals capable of deep reflection, empathy, and understanding. By promoting literary engagement, Francis is advocating for a more profound and enriched approach to personal and spiritual development, one that acknowledges the enduring power of the written word.
As seminaries and religious institutions consider this new directive, the impact of incorporating literature into priestly education could be transformative, offering future priests a more nuanced and empathetic approach to their vocation.
