St. John Paul II and Catholic education. A review of his teachings: an essay to inspire Catholic educators internationally

Education forms a very significant activity within the Roman Catholic Church. The cultural and ethical formation of young generations and thus the future of society and the Church depend largely on it. Catholic schools grant the opportunity to base formal education on Christian anthropology and to shape students’ personality in the light of the Gospel. The pontificate of John Paul II made a significant contribution to the development of Catholic education, and its theoretical foundations in particular. Due to the importance of the Pope's teaching and its timeliness for contemporary Catholic education, we carried out scientific reflection devoted to it. This study is primarily of a source nature, based on an analysis of the statements of John Paul II and the dicasteries of the Roman Curia during his pontificate. It can certainly inspire Catholic educators throughout the world.