The document, titled Magnifica Humanitas, is the first encyclical of the American-born pontiff and outlines a comprehensive ethical framework for the governance of artificial intelligence. Leo argued that governments, technology companies and society must ensure that AI serves humanity rather than concentrated political, military or commercial interests.

The publication had been closely anticipated since the pope declared shortly after his election that artificial intelligence represented the most significant challenge facing humanity. In the text, he warned against what he described as a “culture of power” driving the global race to develop increasingly sophisticated AI systems.

Leo directed particular criticism at the use of AI in warfare, declaring that irreversible decisions involving the use of lethal force should never be delegated to autonomous systems. He argued that accountability for military actions must remain firmly in human hands and called for greater transparency in the development and deployment of AI-enabled weapons.

The encyclical also questioned whether traditional Catholic principles governing the ethical use of force remain adequate in an era of rapidly advancing military technologies.

Leo suggested that technological transformations in warfare require renewed moral reflection and updated international safeguards.Beyond security concerns, the pope warned about the concentration of data, wealth and influence among a small number of technology companies.

He argued that ethical commitments by private firms alone were insufficient and called for robust legal frameworks, independent oversight mechanisms and stronger democratic regulation.The Vatican formally presented the document at an event that included participation from representatives of anthropic, one of the world’s leading artificial intelligence companies.

The company’s involvement reflected the Vatican’s long-running engagement with Silicon Valley on the social and ethical implications of emerging technologies.Despite hosting technology executives, Leo repeatedly emphasized that public authorities must not abdicate responsibility for regulating AI.

He urged developers and policymakers to slow the pace of deployment when necessary and to prioritize the common good over commercial gain.The pope framed the AI revolution within the broader tradition of Catholic social teaching. He linked the challenges posed by artificial intelligence to those addressed in Rerum Novarum, the historic 1891 encyclical issued by Pope Leo XIII that examined workers’ rights and the social consequences of industrialization.

Signed on the 135th anniversary of that document, Magnifica Humanitas argues that AI raises comparable questions about labor, economic power and human dignity. Leo warned that the pursuit of efficiency and profit must not come at the expense of workers whose livelihoods could be displaced by automation.

Technology experts and scholars said the encyclical is likely to become an influential reference point in debates surrounding artificial intelligence governance. Taylor Black said the rapid evolution of AI was already prompting deeper questions about the meaning of human identity, while Paolo Carozza described the document as a potentially defining contribution to discussions about the relationship between technology and society.

The manifesto also contained a historic acknowledgment of the Catholic Church’s role in legitimizing slavery during earlier centuries of European expansion. Leo issued the first papal apology specifically addressing the Holy See’s involvement in granting rulers authority to subjugate and enslave non-Christians, extending the document’s focus beyond technology to broader questions of historical responsibility and human dignity.

The encyclical marks the most comprehensive intervention by the Vatican to date on artificial intelligence and places the Catholic Church at the center of a growing global debate over how emerging technologies should be governed as they reshape economies, societies and international security.

In a moving address at St. Peter’s Square, Pope Leo XIV urged the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics to welcome migrants with open hearts, emphasizing solidarity, hope, and the Church’s role in a new missionary age

In a powerful message of compassion and solidarity, Pope Leo XIV called on Catholics worldwide to embrace migrants and refugees, reinforcing the Church’s mission as a source of hope, hospitality, and moral guidance. Speaking to thousands of pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican on Sunday, the Pope highlighted the importance of welcoming newcomers as brothers and sisters, and of extending kindness and support to those seeking safety and dignity.

The Pope’s address, delivered during Mass celebrating the Jubilee of the Missionary World and the Jubilee of Migrants, emphasized that migrants should never face “the coldness of indifference or the stigma of discrimination.” Instead, he encouraged the faithful to see migration as an opportunity for the Church to renew itself through cultural exchange and human solidarity.

“This is a moment to open our arms and hearts,” Pope Leo said, urging Catholics to be a presence of consolation, hope, and support in the lives of migrants. By framing migration as an opportunity rather than a challenge, he highlighted the transformative potential of human connection, empathy, and shared faith.

A New Missionary Age
Pope Leo, elected in May to succeed the late Pope Francis, described the current period as a “new missionary age” for the global Church. In this era, he said, Catholics are called to act with compassion and solidarity toward those fleeing violence or seeking a safer life.

He noted that communities in traditional Christian regions, particularly in the West, have an opportunity to embrace people from the world’s South. This cultural and spiritual exchange, he explained, has the power to renew and enrich the Church, fostering understanding, growth, and unity across nations and communities.

The Pope’s message comes shortly after he offered thoughtful criticism of hard-line immigration policies, reminding the faithful that the Church’s teachings call for care, dignity, and the protection of life for all human beings. His remarks reaffirm the Church’s longstanding commitment to social justice, humanitarian aid, and global moral leadership.

Celebrating Diversity and Global Solidarity
The Jubilee event drew more than 10,000 pilgrims from over 95 countries, reflecting the truly global nature of the Church and its mission. By bringing together Catholics from diverse backgrounds, Pope Leo emphasized that migration enriches communities, fostering intercultural dialogue, mutual respect, and spiritual growth.

The Pope also encouraged Church leaders and local communities to see migrants not as outsiders, but as partners in building vibrant, inclusive, and compassionate societies. This perspective reinforces the idea that welcoming newcomers can strengthen social cohesion, inspire innovation, and deepen faith through acts of service and hospitality.

A Message for All Faithful
Pope Leo’s address was delivered from a prepared text, marking a thoughtful and measured tone that has distinguished his papacy so far. He invited all Catholics to consider how they can contribute positively to the lives of migrants, whether through volunteering, advocacy, or simple acts of kindness in daily life.

By framing migration as both a moral responsibility and an opportunity for renewal, the Pope’s message resonates beyond the Church, encouraging governments, communities, and individuals to work together to support displaced people and foster inclusive societies.

Hope, Compassion, and the Future
As the Church continues its holy year, Pope Leo’s call to action reminds the faithful that the mission of welcoming and supporting migrants is central to Catholic teaching. His words serve as a beacon of hope, encouraging empathy, understanding, and a renewed commitment to humanitarian principles.

For millions around the world, the Pope’s message underscores the importance of solidarity in a time of global uncertainty, demonstrating that faith, compassion, and proactive engagement can transform lives and communities. In embracing migrants, Catholics are invited to embody the Church’s values, create lasting connections, and participate in a global movement of hope, renewal, and shared humanity.

Through this vision, Pope Leo XIV inspires a forward-looking Church, one that is ready to meet the challenges of the modern world with wisdom, courage, and an unwavering commitment to the dignity of all people.