Pope Leo XVI Urges Dignity Protection Amid AI at Vatican Jubilee

Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff, has urged social media influencers and young Catholics gathered in Rome for the Vatican's Jubilee of Youth to use artificial intelligence (AI) responsibly and uphold human dignity online. Speaking at the Vatican's first Mass for Catholic influencers, he emphasized that AI and technology should serve the benefit of all humanity and warned against using creativity to undermine others’ dignity. The Pope encouraged influencers to create content that fosters genuine human connection, compassion, and solidarity rather than focusing on follower counts or divisiveness. He called for a new way of communicating that gives voice to love and communion, reflecting the Church's mission to promote peace and hope amid technological advancements. This event, part of a larger effort to expand the Church’s presence in digital spaces, marks the first time the Vatican has held a gathering specifically for digital missionaries and Catholic influencers. Pope Leo's message contrasts with prior cautions by Pope Francis about AI's dangers, instead offering a hopeful but cautious vision for integrating faith and technology in the modern era.