Pope Leo XIV Unveils Vision, Declares AI a Key Challenge for Humanity

ROME, Italy — Pope Leo XIV has officially outlined his papacy’s agenda, emphasizing artificial intelligence as a pressing global issue. He pledged to uphold the foundational goals set by his predecessor, Pope Francis, while carving a distinct path for his leadership.

In a symbolic first outing following his election, Leo visited a sanctuary in Genazzano dedicated to the Madonna, significant to the Augustinian order. The community warmly greeted him, where he blessed attendees and engaged in prayer.

His initial public appearance followed a formal audience with the cardinals who elected him. During this meeting, he frequently referenced Pope Francis, reaffirming a commitment to making the Catholic Church more inclusive and supportive of the marginalized.

Leo, the first American pope, reiterated his dedication to the reforms of the Second Vatican Council, highlighting AI’s impact on human dignity and labor rights. He noted that the Church offers vital social teachings in response to modern technological challenges.

While Leo acknowledged the historical contributions of his namesake, Pope Leo XIII, he also positioned current AI developments as critical to societal discussions, echoing concerns raised by Francis. The former pope had cautioned against letting technology supplant human judgment in significant ethical decisions.

In his remarks, Leo reflected on the Church’s responsibility amid technological advancements, promoting dialogue centered on human values. His speech stressed the importance of addressing contemporary issues like AI’s ethical implications while maintaining a focus on compassion and morality.

Cardinals registered overwhelming support for Leo during the conclave, with reports indicating he secured more than 100 votes on the final ballot, well beyond the 89 required for election. This rapid consensus reflected his growing influence among the diverse assembly of cardinals.

Notably, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, a leading contender for the papacy, commended Leo’s leadership capabilities and understanding of pressing global challenges. His recognition of Leo’s balanced approach to governance illustrates a united front as the Church embarks on this new chapter.

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