Pope on AI: It is important to dialogue with everyone to promote the common good

Vatican, July 8, 2026: Pope Leo XIV's encyclical Magnifica humanitas emerged from listening to people from different backgrounds who interact with and work in the field of artificial intelligence. At the same time, it was “also impelled by troubling accounts of the potential misuses of algorithms and by the loss of human agency in critical areas,” the Pope said in a message signed on his behalf by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin and released on July 8, 2026.

The message was issued for the AI for Good Global Summit, being held in Geneva from July 7 to 10. Organised by the United Nations’ International Telecommunication Union (ITU), together with other UN agencies and the Swiss government, the summit seeks to examine how AI is influencing the world while identifying solutions to significant global challenges.

“As you are convening to reflect upon AI, which raises some of the major questions of our time regarding the future of humanity, the Holy Father would like to assure you of the Holy See's presence and openness to dialogue, especially in this epochal turning point,” the message stated.

The message noted that, through his encyclical on safeguarding the human person in the age of AI, Magnifica humanitas, Pope Leo XIV expressed his wish to enter into dialogue with people from every sphere of society in order “to identify new paths for the common good and for promoting a dignified life for all.”

“Magnifica humanitas was born from his listening ‘to scientists and engineers who work with sincere enthusiasm on technologies capable of alleviating immense suffering; to political leaders and public officials who have perseveringly sought just rules; to parents and teachers who are deeply concerned for the future of younger generations’.”

The message also pointed out that the encyclical was shaped by the harmful effects AI has had on individuals and society.

“While wishing you to engage in constructive and enriching discussions, the Holy Father willingly assures you of his prayers in your efforts ‘to serve humanity’,” the message concludes.

Courtesy: Vatican News