Pastoral Focus in Biblical Studies: Pope says
In a special audience celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Studium Biblicum Franciscanum, a Jerusalem-based graduate school of Scripture and archaeology studies, Pope Francis emphasized the pastoral dimension of studying Scripture and archaeology in the land of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection.
Addressing students and staff of the institute at the Vatican on January 15, Pope Francis stressed that studying Scripture in the Holy Land should go beyond scholarly pursuits. He highlighted the need for the pastoral impact of helping others understand and live the gospel in a more comprehensible way.
"In this time, in which the Lord asks us to listen and know better his word, to make it resonate in the world in an ever more comprehensible way, your discreet and impassioned work is more valuable than ever," the Pope stated.
Acknowledging the challenges posed by the Israeli-Hamas conflict, Pope Francis expressed concern for the situation in the Holy Land. He noted the gravity of the current circumstances and called for prayers and tireless efforts to bring an end to the tragedy.
The Pope thanked the Franciscans for their ongoing presence and work in the Holy Land, urging them to "go forward with courage." He also encouraged students and staff to approach the Scriptures in a manner inspired by St. Francis of Assisi, where the study of the word of God becomes an experience of a sapiential nature, aiming to help people live the gospel better and become good.
"Let the rigorous and scientific study of biblical sources, enriched by the most updated methods and disciplines, always be united with contact with the life of the holy people of God and aimed at their pastoral service," Pope Francis emphasized. "Outside the body of the church, these studies serve nothing. What counts is the heart of the church, of the Holy Mother Church."
