“I would like to propose that educators add new content to their teaching: fraternity,” the Holy Father said.

Pope Francis’ prayer intention for the month of January is for educators.

“Educators are witnesses who not only impart their mental knowledge but also their convictions, their commitment to life,” the Holy Father said in a video appeal released by the Vatican on Jan. 10. 

“I would like to propose that educators add new content to their teaching: fraternity,” the Holy Father said.

“Education is an act of love that illuminates the path for us to recover a sense of fraternity, so we will not ignore those who are most vulnerable.”

He added: “They [educators] know how to handle the three languages well: that of the head, that of the heart, and that of the hands, all in harmony. And hence the joy in communicating.”

“And they will be heeded much more attentively and will become community builders. Why? Because they’re sowing this testimony,” Pope Francis continued.

The Holy Father concluded the video message with a prayer: “Let us pray that educators may be credible witnesses, teaching fraternity rather than confrontation and helping especially the youngest and most vulnerable above all.”

Pope Francis’ prayer video is promoted by the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network, which raises awareness of monthly papal prayer intentions.

This article was originally published by EWTN News English.