Just two days after his election to the papacy, Pope Leo XIV met with the College of Cardinals on Saturday to discuss the direction he envisions for the Catholic Church under his leadership. During this initial meeting, he revealed that his choice of papal name—Leo XIV—was deeply symbolic, intended to reaffirm the Church’s commitment to its social teachings in a time of rapid technological and societal change, especially with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI).
Pope Leo XIV said the inspiration for his name comes directly from Pope Leo XIII, whose 1891 encyclical ‘Rerum Novarum’ is considered a foundational text of modern Catholic social teaching. That document addressed the conditions of the working class during the industrial revolution and argued for the rights of labor, the role of the state in economic affairs, and the dignity of labor. Echoing this legacy, Pope Leo XIV expressed his desire to channel the spirit of reform and social concern that characterized his namesake’s papacy, now adapted to the moral and ethical challenges of the 21st century.
“We are again on the cusp of a new kind of revolution,” Pope Leo XIV said. “This time, it is not industrial or digital alone, but an age being irrevocably shaped by artificial intelligence, automation, and unprecedented technological power. The Church must be present to guide humanity not just spiritually but morally and socially through these developments.”
The Pope acknowledged both the opportunities and dangers posed by advances in AI—ranging from its potential to enhance healthcare and education to the risks of job displacement, increased inequality, and the erosion of human dignity. He called on theologians, ethicists, and tech developers alike to participate in a robust dialogue aimed at ensuring these technologies serve the common good.
This initial message suggests Pope Leo XIV’s papacy may be defined by a proactive stance on contemporary global issues, including technological ethics, economic justice, and human rights. His statements also hint at forthcoming doctrinal or pastoral guidance from the Vatican on AI and its impact on society.
As the Church navigates its role in an increasingly digital era, Pope Leo XIV’s choice of name signals a commitment to grounding future teachings in Catholic tradition while responding to the ethical challenges of the modern world.
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