Additional Coverage:
- Pope Leo signals he will closely follow Francis and says AI represents challenge for humanity (cnn.com)
New American Pope Signals Focus on Social Justice and AI
Pope Leo XIV, formerly Chicago-born Robert Prevost, addressed cardinals for the first time Saturday since his historic election on Thursday. He emphasized his commitment to following in the footsteps of his predecessors, particularly Pope Francis and Pope Leo XIII, highlighting social justice and the challenges of artificial intelligence.
Meeting with the cardinals to a standing ovation, Pope Leo XIV expressed his desire to continue the legacy of Pope Leo XIII, known for his focus on social issues during the Industrial Revolution. The new pontiff stressed the Church’s role in addressing the impact of the current technological revolution, especially the rise of artificial intelligence, on human dignity, justice, and labor.
Speaking in fluent Italian, Pope Leo XIV praised Pope Francis’s dedication to service and simple living, urging the cardinals to embrace this “precious legacy.” He called for a renewed commitment to the Second Vatican Council’s reforms, emphasizing a missionary focus, collaborative leadership, and care for the vulnerable.
Acknowledging the weight of the papacy, the Pope expressed gratitude for the support of the cardinals, particularly Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re and Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell, who guided the church during the papal transition. Cardinal Désiré Tsarahazana of Madagascar praised the new Pope and the productive meeting, highlighting the discussion on enhancing collegiality within the Church.
Following the meeting, Pope Leo XIV visited the Madonna del Buon Consiglio sanctuary in Genazzano, a location significant to both his Augustinian order and his namesake, Pope Leo XIII. He addressed the crowd gathered there, expressing his desire to carry forward his mission as the Successor of Peter.
The Pope will greet the public in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday, with an anticipated crowd of 150,000. His installation Mass is scheduled for Sunday, May 18.