The Pope speaks about how to deal with youth in practical and spiritual points, directing his words to those who teach secondary classes and youth to build for them a curriculum suitable for maturity.

Respecting age-maturity and content
Youth at this stage need mature information and content befitting their minds and lifestyle; what is suitable for primary or preparatory stages is not suitable for secondary youth or university students.

Presenting heroes and ideals
We must present before the youth heroic examples and the company of the saints and heroes of virtue and repentance, because they love idealism and heroism and seek role models to emulate.

Spirit of debate and rational dialogue
Youth like discussion and argument; therefore it is useful to teach them comparative theology and defending the faith intelligently, and give them tools to respond to doubts and contemporary ideas in a rational and constructed way.

Important moral and behavioral concepts
Teaching concepts such as responsible freedom, true strength (strength of will, tolerance, forgiveness), achieving self-realization in positive ways, and distinguishing between love and lust — all are elements that must be included in the youth curriculum.

Educational and practical approach
Curricula should be practical and balanced: do not suffice with mere prohibition, but explain reasons and effects, and use scientific and logical examples (for example the effects of smoking) to strengthen awareness and decision.

Role of the teacher and the emotional relationship
The effective teacher is one who combines firmness and love and administrative knowledge and psychological skill; a proper emotional relationship with students wins their love and removes mischief and makes them disciplined.

Dealing with contemporary issues
One must not ignore the problems of the age (addiction, drugs, AIDS, cultural accessories) but address them clearly and objectively and equip youth with practical foundations to deal with them.

Spiritual and educational conclusion
The youth curriculum should build both mind and heart — knowledge, practice and virtues — so that the young person can face the world with steadfastness, faith and service, and that education becomes a means to raise a mature and responsible Christian person.

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