Archbishop Christophe Pierre Lectures on Pope Francis during Campus Visit

Apostolic Nuncio reflects on the papal vision as part of Bergoglio Lecture Series

As part of Sacred Heart University’s 60th anniversary, Archbishop Christophe Pierre, Apostolic Nuncio to the United States of America, describes the Pope’s vision, public image and way of speaking in his lecture, Pope Francis: Origins and Destination.

The Apostolic Nunciature in the United States of America is the diplomatic missionary of the Holy See. The Holy See has the longest tradition of diplomatic initiatives of any sovereign entity in the world today.

Michelle Loris, associate dean of SHU’s College of Arts & Sciences and chair for the department of Catholic studies, provided background on the University’s Bergoglio Lecture Series, which was instituted by the department of Catholic studies. “This series speaks to the heart of SHU’s mission by bringing to campus renowned lecturers who speak about the Catholic intellectual and social traditions as represented by Pope Francis’ vision and his work in the world,” she said.

Pierre began his presentation with an introduction to the Catholic intellectual tradition as shaped by Pope Francis. “The church in the present age, his words and actions have been considered through the lenses of various ideological mindsets resulting at times in contrasting understandings,” he said.

Continuing, Pierre discussed the pope’s public image. “There is no doubt that most people consider him as a reformer—a pope who wants to bring the church into conversation with the challenges of the times, which, for some, seems to lack continuity with previous pontificates.”

Pope Francis’ way of speaking is direct and incisive, inviting people to engage and aimed at stimulating a response. “This is why a question keeps ringing through the walls of the church and emerging from the pages of books and newspapers articles. Who is Pope Francis,” he said.

“These reflections are meant to contribute to the search for an answer, and this is why I am grateful for the opportunity to speak to you about the Pope,” said Pierre. “We should never stop trying to answer this question.”

Additionally, Pierre spoke earlier in the day as part of the University’s Human Journey Colloquia Series. During this lecture, Pierre spoke casually to students and answered any questions that arose during the discussion.

Because of SHU’s 60th anniversary, the nuncio’s talk was one of three Bergoglio lectures that will take place this semester. Upcoming speakers are Cardinal Robert W. McElroy, Bishop of San Diego, and Cardinal Joseph Tobin, Archbishop of Newark. These lectures are sponsored by the Center for Catholic Studies.

The University has grown tremendously in the last 60 years. SHU has enhanced the undergraduate student experience by adding more facilities, athletic programs, degrees and majors.