AI News Monitor

In his first formal address to cardinals on Saturday, Pope Leo XIV signaled his commitment to upholding the reforms of his predecessor, the late Pope Francis, while identifying artificial intelligence as one of the defining challenges facing humanity today.

The newly elected pontiff, born Robert Prevost in Chicago, became the first American pope in history on Thursday, sparking celebration among Catholics across the Americas. Speaking in fluent Italian, he emphasized the need to defend “human dignity, justice, and labor” in the face of rapid technological advancements.

“Just as Pope Leo XIII addressed the social upheavals of the Industrial Revolution, today we must confront the challenges posed by another industrial revolution—one driven by artificial intelligence,” Pope Leo told the assembled cardinals in the Vatican’s synod hall.

His choice of the name Leo XIV pays homage to Pope Leo XIII, whose 1891 encyclical Rerum Novarum laid the foundation for Catholic social teaching in response to worker exploitation during the Industrial Revolution. The new pope stressed that the Church must continue to apply its social doctrine to modern struggles, including economic inequality and ethical concerns surrounding AI.

Pope Leo also made clear that his papacy would build on the legacy of Pope Francis, praising his “sober simplicity of life” and dedication to social justice. “Let us take up this precious legacy and continue on the journey,” he urged the cardinals, calling for renewed commitment to the reforms of the Second Vatican Council, which modernized the Church in the 1960s.

In a departure from tradition, the meeting was held in the synod hall rather than the apostolic palace, underscoring the new pope’s emphasis on collegiality and dialogue. He struck a humble tone, acknowledging the weight of his new role while expressing gratitude for the cardinals’ support.

Pope Leo will greet the public again on Sunday from St. Peter’s Basilica before his formal installation Mass on May 18. As the first U.S.-born pontiff, his leadership is already being closely watched for signs of how he will navigate the Church’s future—both in embracing technological progress and preserving its core mission.