YSI @ The Economy of Francesco International Summer School 2024 | La Verna

The Economy of Francesco Summer School 2024 “Homo Mendicans: Companionship, Wandering, and the pursuit of Joy”, inspired by the suggestions of Pope Francis, will explore the mendicant way and test its suitability in our post-modern times.

During the five days of summer school, five macro-topics will be covered:

•  Prophecy of Mendicants and Friars:  We will explore the economic history of the mendicant orders to explain new elements brought, for example, by Franciscans and their form of life of the highest poverty (within its economic and theological roots). Such insights resonate deeply with the ethos of the Economy of Francesco community, which seeks to forge a more inclusive and sustainable economic framework rooted in fraternity, sorority, and mutual support.

• Beyond Happiness: Pursuing the Perfect Joy:  What is its revolutionary message for our modern times, particularly for happiness & economics studies? In embracing St. Francis’ notion of Perfect Joy as a catalyst for reimagining happiness and economics, we embark on a journey towards a more comprehensive understanding of well-being, rooted in compassion, solidarity, and the pursuit of a more just and inclusive economic paradigm.

• Fraternity and Sorority Beyond Individualism:  We will explore the multiple dimensions of fraternity and sorority, being helped by the prophecy of the two Francesco (the Saint and the Pope), and we will try to understand their relevance for contemporary Economics and economic life.

• Beyond Profit: Embracing Purposeful Commerce through the Franciscan Lens: Imagining a generative relation between purpose and profit today means rediscovering that sight of the Franciscans, together with their love for merchants and markets. It means understanding how businesses can realize personal and social purposes while being profitable and competitive.
  By embracing the Franciscan approach, we pave the way for businesses to thrive not only in financial terms but also in their contribution to societal well-being. This ethos underscores the imperative of fostering inclusive economies that prioritize the dignity and flourishing of all individuals, echoing the principles at the core of the Economy of Francesco.

• Marching Towards Change: Exploring the Power of Collective Movement in Social Transformation: By embracing the ethos of solidarity and shared purpose exemplified by marches and pilgrimages throughout history, we are reminded of the power inherent in coming together to effect positive change. This ethos calls us to transcend individual interests and unite in a common journey toward building a more just and equitable world, where the marginalized are uplifted and the dignity of every human person is upheld.