Pope Leo XIV Sets Papal Agenda, Citing Artificial Intelligence as Challenge to Humanity

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In his first days as pontiff, Pope Leo XIV has signaled a new era for the Catholic Church, identifying artificial intelligence (AI) as one of the most pressing challenges facing humanity.

While pledging continuity with the priorities of Pope Francis, Leo’s early actions and words reflect a vision distinctly his own, rooted in his Augustinian heritage and a keen awareness of the technological and ethical crossroads confronting the modern world.

On Saturday, Leo made his inaugural public appearance as pope, journeying to the Madonna sanctuary of Madre del Buon Consiglio in Genazzano, a site of deep significance to both his religious order and his papal namesake, Pope Leo XIII.

Greeted by townspeople and Augustinian friars, Leo offered prayers and blessings, underscoring the spiritual and communal responsibilities that come with faith. His visit also paid homage to his order’s legacy of service and contemplation, and to the enduring influence of St. Augustine.

Returning to Rome, Leo paused to pray at the tomb of Pope Francis in St. Mary Major Basilica, a gesture symbolizing both continuity and respect for his predecessor’s reformist legacy.

Earlier in the day, Leo had presided over his first formal audience with the cardinals who elected him, reiterating the Church’s commitment to inclusivity, care for the marginalized, and the ongoing reforms of the Second Vatican Council.

In his address, delivered in Italian at the Vatican’s synod hall, the Chicago-born pontiff emphasized the urgent need for the Church to engage with contemporary issues. He singled out artificial intelligence as a transformative force that poses profound questions about human dignity, justice, and the future of work.

“In our own day, the church offers everyone the treasury of its social teaching in response to another industrial revolution and to developments in the field of artificial intelligence that pose new challenges for the defense of human dignity, justice and labor,” Leo declared.

This focus on AI echoes concerns raised by Francis, who in his final years called for international treaties to regulate the technology and protect the vulnerable. Leo’s remarks suggest he will build on this foundation, positioning the Church as a moral voice in the global debate over technological change.

The Vatican also revealed that Leo will retain the motto and coat of arms he used as bishop of Chiclayo, Peru: “In Illo uno unum,” a phrase from St. Augustine emphasizing unity in Christ. His pectoral cross, a gift from the Augustinian order, contains relics of St. Augustine and his mother, St. Monica, further reflecting his deep spiritual roots.

Leo’s election was notable for its speed and the breadth of support he received in the largest and most diverse conclave in Church history. Madagascar Cardinal Désiré Tsarahazana reported that Leo secured more than 100 of the 133 votes, far surpassing the two-thirds majority required.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s secretary of state and former papal contender, praised Leo’s leadership and his ability to address complex problems with calm, balance, and compassion. Parolin cited Leo’s commitment to peace and his skillful governance both in Peru and at the Vatican.

As the first American pope and a lifelong Augustinian, Leo XIV enters the papacy at a time of rapid change and uncertainty. His early emphasis on AI, social justice, and unity suggests a pontificate attuned to both the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century, determined to guide the Church with wisdom, humility, and a spirit of dialogue.