The Pedagogy of Peace in the Teaching of Pope Francis

Abstract

The issue of peace holds a central place in the teaching of Pope Francis, who, both in numerous documents and in various public addresses, has consistently emphasized that “there is no future without peace.” The responsibility for fostering peace rests particularly on every baptized person, who is called to be a “tool of peace and a credible witness of reconciliation,” as well as on all people of goodwill. This publication, presenting Pope Francis’s teaching on peace, explores the foundations of the pedagogy of peace, with a special focus on the obstacles to its realization. A major challenge in the contemporary world is the lack of brotherhood among human communities and the continuous outbreak of armed conflicts. The author of the publication outlines the concept of peace in Pope Francis’s teaching and discusses selected paths to building peace, always bearing in mind the well-being of every human being and their right to a dignified life. In conclusion, the author conveys the Pope’s appeal for ongoing commitment to peace—one that is not built through weapons, but through “outstretched hands and open hearts.”