Pope Challenges AI’s Ability to Replace God – Guest Commentary
We all know that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is quickly taking over technology, but has it taken over your view of God? According to Pope Leo XIV, AI “undermines genuine relationships and the dignity of the human person.” Choosing to act, Leo has issued his first encyclical letter, arguing that Christianity offers a more compelling view of life than virtual machines do.
In his encyclical, entitled “Magnifica Humanitas” (“Magnificent Humanity”), Leo quotes “Gaudium et spes” (“Joy and Hope”). This document addresses the Church’s responsibility to take a stand on moral issues, even when difficult. And that includes the use of ethical AI from the pulpit and beyond.
“Whenever humanity is in danger of marring its true identity, we Christians lift our eyes to the Incarnate God, knowing that it is ‘only in the mystery of the Word made flesh that the mystery of humanity truly becomes clear,’” the document notes. “In Jesus Christ, this humanity in its grandeur becomes the Way, the Truth, and the Life, opening the path for each of us to grow toward fullness.”
When asked about these statements, Leo explained that though there are human limitations such as suffering, old age, or illness, these things teach us much-needed wisdom. Though admittedly, AI can be a useful and valuable tool, it requires a “measured and vigilant approach.”
“When words are simulated, they do not build genuine relationships, but only their appearance. The artificial imitation of care or support can become particularly risky when it enters contexts where real relationships and emotional bonds are lacking,” he warns.
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Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Vatican Pool/Contributor
Originally published May 28, 2026.
