Pope Leo XIV has shared his vision for the papacy, identifying artificial intelligence as a major global concern. He also confirmed his intent to continue many of Pope Francis’ key priorities while shaping a distinct path of his own.
Visit to sanctuary signals personal commitment
For his first public appearance, Pope Leo travelled to a Marian sanctuary in Genazzano, south of Rome. The site, dedicated to the Madonna, is especially meaningful to the Augustinian order, to which he belongs. Locals gathered in the town square to welcome him as he arrived with Vatican security.
The sanctuary, run by Augustinian friars, has drawn pilgrims since the 15th century. After praying inside the church, he spoke to residents, calling the Madonna’s presence in their town both a gift and a responsibility.
On his return journey, he stopped at the Basilica of St Mary Major to pray at Pope Francis’ tomb.
Pope Leo XIV reaffirms legacy of Pope Francis and church reform
Earlier that day, Pope Leo met with the cardinals who elected him. In his address, he referred often to Pope Francis and his 2013 mission document The Joy of the Gospel, which he described as a guide for his own leadership.
He reaffirmed his support for the reforms of the Second Vatican Council, which sought to modernise the Church in the 1960s. He also stressed the importance of inclusion, listening to the faithful, and prioritising the needs of the poor and excluded.
Leo spoke about the Church’s missionary role, the need for shared leadership, and the value of popular devotion in shaping faith.
AI as a moral and social priority
Pope Leo named artificial intelligence as a defining issue for the Church and wider society. He raised concerns about its impact on human dignity, labour, and justice.
He linked his chosen name to Pope Leo XIII, known for launching modern Catholic social teaching. In 1891, Leo XIII addressed economic inequality in the encyclical Rerum Novarum, responding to the industrial revolution. Pope Leo XIV sees AI as today’s equivalent moment for Catholic reflection and moral guidance.
Pope Francis had also warned of the risks linked to AI. Near the end of his papacy, he called for international rules to ensure human control over such technologies. Speaking at the 2024 G7 summit, he stressed that decisions—especially on warfare—must remain in human hands.
In his final peace message, Francis argued for an AI treaty. He warned that technology without compassion, morality, and mercy poses a serious danger if left unchecked.
