As the late Pope Francis continues to loom large in the minds of faithful around the globe, his enduring legacy is soon to have a tangible dedication in Waterloo, Ont., with St. Jerome’s University launching the world’s first Pope Francis Institute. 

The institute, announced April 21, the first anniversary of the late pontiff’s death, will serve as a hub for dialogue, formation and research rooted in Francis’ signature themes from across his life. Of these, encountering across difference, care for those on the margins, migrants and refugees, ecological conversion and healing digital-age fragmentation lead the way. 

Having been in the works well before Pope Francis’ passing in April 2025, the newest initiative from the Catholic university federated with the University of Waterloo builds on existing programming, including the university’s Certificate in Catholic Leadership, which blends academic study, spiritual formation and service for professionals working in schools, hospitals and social services.  

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“ This project is something that was very much motivated by all the overarching topics of Francis’ papacy, which we think really reflects our Catholic mission and our identity as a Catholic university,” said Dr. Peter Meehan, president of St. Jerome’s.

“Further,  these are themes that are clearly being continued by Pope Leo in his own unique way. We've had two popes in a row who were not fathers of the council and who are able to see it more objectively, and bring its message of engagement with the world. The world needs the Church right now in these very particular ways, and we see this institute as our way of expressing that.”  

The institute will assemble academic, ecclesial and community voices to host a “diverse range” of programs, all rooted in Francis’ spirituality and the educational tradition of his Jesuit order. Of these, the university will offer engaging public lectures, immersive retreats and workshops, professional development and microcredentials that equip leaders in the non-profit and faith-based sectors and groundbreaking research exploring the intersection of faith and modern life. 

Meehan shared his hopes for the institutes’ ability to provide education, formation and practical action. 

“ Pope Francis laid out the blueprint for his papacy in Evangelii Gaudium, which spoke about the way the Church needs to be moving forward. In this case, to address these themes and to bring them to people in practical ways is how we see this moving forward for us,” Meehan said. 

Even in its earliest stages, strong collaborations are already in place with the Diocese of Hamilton, the Jesuits of Canada and the university’s founders, the Congregation of the Resurrection. It's also supported by an advisory committee of local and international experts.

Hamilton Bishop Joseph Dabrowski shared his thoughts on the project. 

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“Situated at the crossroads of the university and the wider community, the Institute promises to be an important instrument of learning and dialogue, guiding the renewal of the Church and equipping us for our evangelizing mission in our local Church and beyond. As Bishop of Hamilton, I fully endorse this initiative of St. Jerome’s University, confident that it will strengthen Catholic identity in communion with the local Church and its discernment. I look forward to a close collaboration with the Pope Francis Institute,” he said in a statement. 

The Pope Francis Institute will begin operating within the existing university structure, although Meehan teased plans to grow a dedicated team over time following its evolution after its official launch in the fall. 

University stakeholders and community partners will gather for a preview of the Pope Francis Institute May 26 at a private event on campus, with Mass presided by Dabrowski, remarks by institute leadership and a talk by Dr. Michael W. Higgins, president emeritus of St. Jerome’s University. 

As something the university has been hopeful about unveiling for a long time, Meehan looks forward to getting it off the ground and running as soon as possible. 

“We are excited, and the launch is important for us to work within the diocese, with supporters and members of our community, to generate that enthusiasm,” he said.

“The Church that Pope Francis outlined for us is still possible, and we hope to continue his pastoral legacy through the programs and opportunities we are providing through this institute.” 

See uwaterloo.ca/st-jeromes/about-st-jeromes/pope-francis-institute. 

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