Pope Francis elevated the Vatican's diplomatic academy to an institute of higher learning. The academy will now grant master's and doctoral degrees in diplomatic sciences. The changes aim to strengthen the academy's focus on evangelization. The academy was originally founded in 1701 to train priests for diplomatic service. The training includes studies in law, history, politics, economics, and languages.
19 days ago
Pope Francis has elevated the Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy to an institute of higher learning 1. The academy, which trains priests for diplomatic service in the Holy See, will now offer academic degrees 1. This change was formalized in a document signed by the Pope and released on April 15 1. Founded in 1701, the academy prepares priests to serve as nuncios and in other Vatican roles worldwide 1.
The academy will grant master's and doctorate degrees in "diplomatic sciences" 1. Training includes studies in law, history, politics, economics, and languages 1. A key change is the strengthened focus on evangelization within the curriculum 1. Since 2020, priests preparing for Vatican diplomatic service are required to spend a year in missionary work 1. The academy is an integral part of the Secretariat of State 1.
Vatican diplomats represent the Holy See to countries and international organizations 1. They also represent the Pope to the local Catholic Church and help in the search for new bishops 1. Cardinal Pietro Parolin emphasized that these diplomats serve as the Pope's "watchful and lucid eye" 1. They are called to interpret and propose solutions for a more just and fraternal world, in line with the Church's vision 1.
The news article highlights Pope Francis's renewal of the Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy, emphasizing a strengthened focus on evangelization within its curriculum. This underscores the intrinsic link between the Church's diplomatic role and its mission to spread the Gospel. The Church's diplomatic efforts, carried out by the Holy See, are not separate from its evangelizing mission but rather serve as a crucial instrument for it .
The Holy See's diplomatic activity is multifaceted, involving engagement with governments, international organizations, and various decision-making centers . This engagement is rooted in the Church's concern for the well-being of all people and its desire to contribute to a more just and fraternal world . As Pope Paul VI stated, the Church's diplomacy is not driven by self-interest or temporal ambitions but by a commitment to the moral good of peoples and a sincere witnessing to the Gospel .
Evangelization is the core mission of the Church, as it is the grace and vocation proper to the Church, her deepest identity . The Church exists to evangelize, to preach and teach, to be the channel of grace, to reconcile sinners with God, and to perpetuate Christ's sacrifice . This mission is rooted in the command of Jesus to "go into all the world and preach the Gospel to the whole creation" (Mk 16:15) .
The Church's diplomatic role is intrinsically linked to its evangelization mission. By engaging with governments and international organizations, the Holy See works to create a world where the Gospel can be proclaimed and lived out more freely and effectively . The renewal of the Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy, with its strengthened focus on evangelization, reflects the Church's commitment to this essential aspect of its mission . As Pope John Paul II stated, the Church's diplomatic mission is a concrete service to humanity, helping individuals and peoples to fulfill their destiny in peace and harmony .