In his first official remarks as pope, Leo XIV delivered a powerful message to the College of Cardinals on Saturday, warning that artificial intelligence (AI) presents serious new risks to human dignity. He called on the Catholic Church to step up and respond to these challenges with moral clarity and bold action.
Addressing the congregation at the New Synod Hall, the Pope stated the Catholic Church Has encountered comparable situations in the past.
He likened the swift advancements in artificial intelligence technology today to the significant disruptions caused during the 19th-century Industrial Revolution, stating that the Church needs to once more protect workers and advocate for fairness.
Pope Leo XIII tackled the social issue within the framework of the initial major Industrial Revolution through his groundbreaking Encyclical Rerum Novarum,” stated Pope Leo XIV. “In our time, as we face yet another industrial revolution, the Church presents its extensive body of social teachings to address these contemporary challenges.” Pope Leo XIV, previously Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, is the inaugural American to ascend to the papacy.
A previous missionary and leader of the Dicastery for Bishops, he has fluency in English, Spanish, and Italian and was broadly regarded as a conciliatory selection following the passing of Pope Francis. By choosing the name “Leo,” he aligns his mission with Pope Leo XIII’s emphasis on social justice.
Under Pope Francis, the Vatican greatly expanded its digital outreach. It restructured its media operations, launched popular social media efforts and introduced ethical guidelines for AI. The “Rome Call for AI Ethics ” is a joint initiative between the Church and tech leaders promoting transparency in AI development.
Pope Leo XIV stated unequivocally that he would carry on with this endeavor. During his address, he portrayed AI as an influential element capable of transforming employment, societal structures, and our self-perception. He underscored that individuals, rather than financial gain, should be prioritized.
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He stated, ‘These are the Gospel teachings where the merciful countenance of the Father has been unveiled and remains unveiled through the Son who became human.’ He continued, ‘Let’s embrace this invaluable inheritance and move forward together, driven by the hope that springs from our belief.’
He similarly encouraged Catholics to remain anchored in silent prayer and thoughtful consideration within our loud digital environment. Quoting scripture, he noted that God is typically found not in dramatic displays or storms, but rather in “the soft rustle of a gentle wind,” or even better—in complete stillness.
The Pope likewise pondered upon the recent passing of Pope Francis. He expressed feelings of profound sadness yet acknowledged it as an occasion imbued with divine grace. Describing the shift towards electing a new pontiff as akin to a “paschal event” — a significant spiritual milestone—he conveyed gratitude toward his immediate predecessor for dedicating his life to service.
“I would like us to renew together today our complete commitment to the path that the universal Church has now followed for decades in the wake of the Second Vatican Council,” he said. He also encouraged more listening, dialogue and care for the poor.
As Vatican Media reported
The Pope’s comments “portrayed an image of a church deeply grounded in traditions yet ready to face the future with boldness,” especially concerning its approach to technologies that are altering human identity.
The Associated Press provided contributions to this report.
Original article source:
Pope Leo XIV refers to this as a challenge to ‘human dignity’ in his initial speech to cardinals.
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