Acta Apostolicae Sedis - Commentarium Officiale326

ing of the Church would obstruct or even betray the university's identity and

mission; a mission at the heart of the Church's munus docendi and not some-

how autonomous or independent of it.

Teachers and administrators, whether in universities or schools, have the

duty and privilege to ensure that students receive instruction in Catholic

doctrine and practice. This requires that public witness to the way of Christ,

as found in the Gospel and upheld by the Church's Magisterium, shapes all

aspects of an institution's life, both inside and outside the classroom. Diver-

gence from this vision weakens Catholic identity and, far from advancing

freedom, inevitably leads to confusion, whether moral, intellectual or spiri-

tual.

I wish also to express a particular word of encouragement to both lay and

Religious teachers of catechesis who strive to ensure that young people be-

come daily more appreciative of the gift of faith. Religious education is a

challenging apostolate, yet there are many signs of a desire among young

people to learn about the faith and practice it with vigor. If this awakening is

to grow, teachers require a clear and precise understanding of the specific

nature and role of Catholic education. They must also be ready to lead the

commitment made by the entire school community to assist our young peo-

ple, and their families, to experience the harmony between faith, life and

culture.

Here I wish to make a special appeal to Religious Brothers, Sisters and

Priests: do not abandon the school apostolate; indeed, renew your commit-

ment to schools especially those in poorer areas. In places where there are

many hollow promises which lure young people away from the path of truth

and genuine freedom, the consecrated person's witness to the evangelical

counsels is an irreplaceable gift. I encourage the Religious present to bring

renewed enthusiasm to the promotion of vocations. Know that your witness

to the ideal of consecration and mission among the young is a source of great

inspiration in faith for them and their families.

To all of you I say: bear witness to hope. Nourish your witness with

prayer. Account for the hope that characterizes your lives 11 by living the

truth which you propose to your students. Help them to know and love the

One you have encountered, whose truth and goodness you have experienced

11 Cf. 1 Pet 3:15.