Pope Francis has unveiled his prayer intention for January 2025, urging the global Church to pray for "the right to education."

In this month’s installment of The Pope Video, an initiative of the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network, the Holy Father emphasizes the critical importance of education, calling it a universal right and a pathway to hope.

"We are facing an educational catastrophe," the Pope warns, highlighting that nearly 250 million children worldwide are deprived of schooling due to conflicts, migration, and poverty. He passionately asserts, "Every child and young person has the right to attend school, irrespective of their immigration status."

The Pope stressed that education is a powerful tool against discrimination, exploitation, and involvement in criminal networks, particularly for migrants and refugees. "So many children are exploited," he lamented, pointing out that education equips them to integrate into host communities and build better futures.

Education, the Pontiff explained, not only helps individuals but also benefits society, enabling migrants and refugees to contribute meaningfully either in their new homes or upon returning to their native countries.

Concluding his message, Pope Francis invoked a profound reminder: "Whoever welcomes the foreigner welcomes Jesus Christ." He encouraged prayers for those impacted by war, displacement, and inequality, urging respect for their fundamental right to education—a cornerstone for building a more humane world.

Since its launch in 2016, The Pope Video has garnered over 203 million views globally and is translated into 23 languages. Coordinated by Andrea Sarubbi and distributed by La Machi Communication for Good Causes, the project is supported by Vatican Media and highlights the Pope’s monthly prayer themes to mobilize Catholics worldwide.

The Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network, a Vatican foundation, continues its mission to inspire prayer and action in response to the pressing challenges of our time, aligning with the Pope’s call to address humanity's needs through faith and solidarity.