For the first time, the Vatican Observatory and NASA have teamed up to hold a joint masterclass. Titled, “Masterclass with NASA,” the event will discuss the future of humanity, the economy, and current world crises, such as Afghanistan and Haiti. Registration for the digital event is open now and free for all who wish to attend on October 21, 2021.
The evening will draw an impressive panel of experts, including economist Jeffrey Sachs, NASA engineer Artur Chmielewski, Vatican Observatory’s Guy Consolmagno, and cosmologist Michał Heller. According to a press release, they will speak on the issue of “fading hope” the younger generation has in the future. Organizers wrote:
“We win and lose together. Our main responsibility is to build a vision of tomorrow. NASA’s plans for manned missions to the Moon in 2033 and to Mars in 2043 are important, but what is even more important is our desire to start anew.”
This “vision of tomorrow,” they note, varies from one person to another. The “Masterclass” will discuss these different visions and the role the economy plays in realizing or dampening them. They note that progress is not made by appeals and calls, but rather by dialogue, relationship building, listening, and keeping an open mind.
“Let Us Dream”
Organizers summarize the meeting’s agenda with the phrase, “Let Us Dream.” They note, however, that the dreams of the future of humanity, the economy, and the world are all determined by action. The evening’s speakers are expected to discuss ways in which oneself, one’s community, and the world can be changed through action.
David Gregosz of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation highlighted some changes that are already affecting economics. He noted some 290 occupations that will need or already need additional skills due to technological advances. Difficulties adapting to new aspects of old jobs contributes to unemployment. He says this is as true for newer “digital” jobs as it is for traditional ones. Gregosz said:
“Our meeting aims to show opportunities where we have only seen problems so far. The digital revolution means big changes that also happen through trainings [sic] and meetings like this one. It teaches us the flexibility we require to start again.”
Leadership
The overarching theme of this event is leadership, and this is one reason the Vatican is leading the discussion. On the event’s webpage, they cite research from the American Edelman Agency that found 24 countries recognize Pope Francis as the World’s Most Authentic Leader. The “Masterclass Leadership with the Pope program” was launched to develop young world leaders. This event is expected to be but one of many to come through the program.
Other listed topics of discussion include:
- What is the importance of time?
- Why do we create?
- Development of Mankind?
- Material vs. Spiritual progress?
- Leadership but towards what?
The “Masterclass” is free to register for all who wish to attend. To participate in the discussion, attendees can submit questions for speakers to answer. Special video access is granted to all those who make a donation.
And today we celebrate...