Speaking to faculty and students at Rome's Pontifical Gregorian University, Pope Francis warned against what he called “Coca-Cola spirituality,” cautioning that superficial approaches to faith formation dilute the essence of Christian discipleship. His remarks were part of the Dies Academicus celebration, where he challenged the university community to remain deeply rooted in authentic spiritual engagement.

The metaphor, a reference to the ubiquitous but ultimately insubstantial nature of the popular soft drink, was used by pope to underscore the risks of approaching faith as a shallow exercise. “Have you asked yourselves where you are going and why you are doing the things you are doing?” Pope Francis urged, emphasizing the need to focus on one's spiritual purpose without losing sight of the ultimate goal.

The event was opened by Jesuit Father Mark A. Lewis, the university’s rector, who invoked the example of Bishop Rolando Álvarez as an embodiment of genuine Christian courage. Bishop Álvarez, currently imprisoned and exiled due to his advocacy for human rights in Nicaragua, was praised for standing in solidarity with his people under persecution, exemplifying the sacrificial love that Pope Francis champions.

Drawing inspiration from St. Francis Xavier, pope encouraged the university community to become missionaries motivated by love for humanity and dedication to God’s call. He urged them to resist transforming God’s vision into something “bureaucratic, rigid, and without warmth,” a risk, he warned, of prioritizing personal agendas over providential purpose.

pope also called on the university to cultivate “the smell of the people” — a phrase he often uses to denote a grounding in lived experience. He emphasized that academic formation, when devoid of heart, becomes “arid intellectualism or perverse narcissism.” “When the heart is missing, you can see it,” he stated.

Reflecting on global turmoil, Pope Francis lamented the “world in flames” due to “the madness of war,” a crisis that he says “covers every hope with the shadow of death.” He urged the academic community to engage more deeply with diverse traditions, suggesting the study of Eastern spirituality as a way to foster unity. By immersing themselves in the life, symbols, and suffering of diverse cultures, the pope believes educators can better reveal the boundless love of God.

In a momentous shift, the Pontifical Gregorian University recently integrated three institutions — the Collegium Maximum, the Pontifical Biblical Institute, and the Pontifical Oriental Institute — into its structure under papal guidance. Founded by St. Ignatius of Loyola in 1551 as the Roman College, the university now serves nearly 3,000 students from 121 countries, offering studies in theology, philosophy, canon law, and other disciplines.

After leaving the university, Pope Francis made a private visit to Italian political figure Emma Bonino, who was recently hospitalized. Known as a strong proponent of pro-abortion policies, Bonino’s relationship with the Church has been complex. Despite holding opposing views on abortion, Pope Francis has often promoted open dialogue and engagement over exclusion. The Vatican confirmed the visit, though no further details were provided.

This latest engagement by Pope Francis reiterates his call for genuine, heart-centered spirituality, especially among those entrusted with forming future generations in faith. His warnings about “Coca-Cola spirituality” reflect an ongoing appeal to avoid shallow expressions of faith and to pursue a deeper, more meaningful discipleship rooted in compassion, solidarity, and humility.