Learning From the Past, moving into the Future: Revitalizing Catholic Theological Education in an Era of Technological Disruption Through the Franciscan Spirit

Abstrak

This paper discusses the challenges and opportunities for Catholic theological education due to the accelerated progress of digital technology in the 21st-century era. Technological developments have impacted changes in the world of education. In this case, the Franciscan model can still encourage education in times of complex problems like today. Even though the Catholic Education curriculum has undergone many changes and advances since the Second Vatican Council, further adaptation is needed to remain contemporary. The core Franciscan ideals of simplicity, sanctity of life, social justice, and peace contain profound wisdom regarding current issues of environmental unsustainability and social marginalization. Based on this paradigm, integrative methodologies such as hybrid learning, artistic media, and data analysis can improve the quality of Catholic theological education. However, transformation encompasses all dimensions of education. The institutional ethos must be driven by inclusivity, empathy, and reconciliation. Students require the formation of a conscience to tackle complex issues wisely. Ultimately, the shared future depends on mobilizing all societal actors through policy reforms aligned with universal ideals. Despite the turmoil, Franciscan thought is a steadfast guide to realizing humanistic education in the digital age.