Pope Leo XIV has released his first encyclical, a comprehensive 42,000-word letter titled “Magnifica humanitas,” focusing on the ethical implications of artificial intelligence. Delivered from the historic St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, the encyclical underscores the importance of safeguarding humanity in the era of rapid technological advancement.

Ethical Responsibility in AI Development

In his message, Pope Leo XIV appeals directly to AI developers, highlighting their ethical and spiritual responsibilities. He emphasizes that technological innovation should reflect a vision of humanity that aligns with divine creation. The pope’s call to action is not merely rhetorical; he was joined by Chris Olah, co-founder of the AI company Anthropic, during the presentation of the encyclical.

The encyclical is a significant document in the Catholic Church, providing guidance on doctrine to church leaders. Pope Leo XIV, who began his papacy in May 2025, has previously addressed the topic of AI, cautioning clergy against relying on AI for preparing homilies and warning of the potential loss of human intelligence and creativity.

AI and Human Relationships

In a recent Vatican conference on AI, Pope Leo XIV expressed concerns about chatbots and their impact on human relationships, suggesting that they contribute to a diminishing understanding of what it means to be human. His encyclical reiterates these concerns, urging developers to consider the broader implications of their work on society and human dignity.

This encyclical marks a pivotal moment in the intersection of faith and technology, as the Catholic Church navigates the challenges posed by AI. Pope Leo XIV’s message is a reminder of the need for ethical considerations in technological advancements, ensuring that they serve humanity’s best interests.

Original reporting: WQAD (Quad Cities) — read the source article.