Pope Leo XIV's Encyclical on Artificial Intelligence

These opening lines from Pope Leo XIV’s encyclical, Magnifica humanitas: On Safeguarding the Human Person in the Time of Artificial Intelligence, capture the encyclicals central concern and mission.

The encyclical was released on May 25 and was formally signed by the Pope on May 15, marking the 135th anniversary of Pope Leo XIII’s landmark social encyclical, Rerum novarum. In this document, Pope Leo XIV continues the tradition of Catholic social teaching by addressing one of the defining issues of the modern era: the rise and influence of artificial intelligence.

Across its five chapters, Magnifica humanitas emphasizes that technology is not “a force antagonistic to humanity” (4), nor is it “inherently evil” (9). At the same time, the Pope notes that “technology is never neutral, because it takes on the characteristics of those who devise, finance, regulate, and use it.” For this reason, Pope Leo XIV calls on individuals and institutions to build “for the common good” and to “remain human.” He advocates a spirit of shared responsibility, solidarity, and communion so that the world “will come to recognize the human heart as the place where God desires to dwell” (16).

To dive deeper into the encyclical and to read it yourself, follow this link: Encyclical Letter of His Holiness Leo XIV Magnifica Humanitas (15 May 2026)

Or, here are a few summaries and top takeaways from different outlets:

In first encyclical, Pope Leo urges world to 'disarm' AI amid increased reliance | USCCB

Pope Leo’s A.I. warning: Top takeaways from his groundbreaking first encyclical - America Magazine

Pope Leo XIV’s First Encyclical: An Overview of ‘Magnifica Humanitas’ - Word on Fire

A Complete Guide to Pope Leo’s First Encyclical: Magnifica Humanitas – Ascension