Santiago Collado: “The Church has faith in you”

“The Church trusts in you.” This was stated by the Dean the Ecclesiastical School of Philosophy, Santiago Collado, in his speech the graduation ceremony for the fifteen students who are part of the 37th graduating classes for high school diploma licentiate degree programs at the Ecclesiastical School of Philosophy the University of Navarra, held on May 27.

In his message, he described the faculty as “the best place to study and to engage in philosophy,” not because of the building, but because it seeks to “better understand God” and to draw closer to “Truth with a capital T.” In contrast to other academic fields, he emphasized that the goal this philosophy is the search for Truth, understood as the path to God.

During his speech, he emphasized that the graduation sash “is not a medal,” but rather a symbol of responsibility. He stated that students are called to refund , bring peace, and convey the truth to people, using “both their hearts and their minds.” He also concluded his speech an invitation to embrace this mission statement humility, mission statement reminding them that “the Truth prevails on its own in minds and hearts” and reaffirming the trust placed in them.

“The philosopher: a pilgrim open to wonder”

Italian priest Mattia Scuto, student delegate from the Ecclesiastical School of Philosophy, also spoke at the ceremony. In his remarks, he noted that graduation represents “not only the completion of a programs of study, but also a transformation of perspective,” marked by a period in which students have learned to direct their gaze “toward the past with gratitude, toward the present with awareness, and toward the future with hope.” He recalled that in a context marked by haste and the need for immediate answers, philosophy has taught them “the value of pausing, reflecting, and asking ourselves essential questions.” Furthermore, he emphasized that this journey has not been solely intellectual, but also formative on a staff level, noting that “truth is not imposed with arrogance, but served with humility” and that the philosopher is “a pilgrim who remains open to wonder.”

During his speech, he also highlighted the challenges faced throughout the programs of study, noting that “true knowledge requires discipline, patience, and perseverance,” and emphasized the community aspect of the experience, since “behind every C exam C every thesis there is an entire community.” The delegate thanked the professors, families, and benefactors for their support, and affirmed that even the differences and obstacles have ultimately become a source of richness. Finally, looking toward the future, he recalled that “authentic philosophy always opens up new questions and new paths” and that the main teaching that “truth is not possessed, but rather served as a vocation,” encouraging everyone to continue on the path with faith, truth, and commitment.