Vision for the Pontificate of Pope Leo XIV: AI Emerges as a Significant Threat to Humanity's Future
Papal Debut:
Pope Leo XIV sets sail on his pontificate, declaring AI as a significant challenge for humanity and vowing to continue the core priorities of his predecessor, Pope Francis. To emphasize his Augustinian roots, Leo paid a visit to a sanctuary south of Rome dedicated to the Madonna, a site of significance to both his order and his namesake, Pope Leo XIII.
Italian townsfolk of Genazzano gathered to welcome the new Pope, and he blessed them before taking off back to the Vatican. The zealous leader visited the tomb of Pope Francis at St. Mary Major Basilica during an afternoon expedition.
Leo addressed his newly elected cardinals in his first formal audience, continuously referencing Pope Francis's 2013 mission statement, focusing on inclusivity, attention to the faithful, and a church that champions the "least and rejected."
Signs of the Future
The Vatican subtly hinted at the tone of Leo's pontificate by revealing he would retain the motto and coat of arms from his tenure as Bishop of Chiclayo, Peru. His motto, "In Illo uno unum," showcases unity in the church, while his emblem portrays the Augustinian order's symbol: a pierced flaming heart and a book signifying the Scriptures.
The pectoral cross the Pope is wearing is a gift from the Augustinian order, containing relics of St. Augustine and his mother, St. Monica, who played a crucial role in his conversion to Christianity.
St. Augustine of Hippo:
St. Augustine is an essential figure in the development of early Christianity, a grand theologian, and a devoted saint. The Augustinian order, established as a community of mendicant friars in the 13th century, centers on poverty, service, and evangelization.
Artificial Intelligence – A Major Concern:
Pope Leo XIV acknowledges artificial intelligence as a key concern in today's world. By doing so, he signals his intention to deal with the ethical, social, and spiritual inquiries raised by advancing technologies, intending to merge these issues with the Church’s moral and social teachings.
Pope Francis grew increasingly vocal about the perils posed to humanity by AI as his pontificate reached its end, calling for an international treaty to manage it. In his view, the Chicago-born Augustinian missionary Robert Prevost, who was appointed to key Vatican offices by Francis, resembled a spiritual heir apparent.
A Swift Election:
Greeted by a standing ovation, Pope Leo XIV began his papacy amidst exceptional circumstances – the largest and most geographically diverse conclave in history. Despite the diverse group of cardinals, Leo was elected on the fourth ballot, a rapid outcome that implies broad support.
Cardinal Désiré Tsarahazana, a competitor in the conclave, revealed that Leo received more than 100 votes on the final ballot, suggesting an extraordinary majority even beyond the two-thirds necessary for election.
Offerings from Rivals
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, a strong contender for the papal throne, expressed his congratulations in a letter published in his hometown newspaper. Parolin acknowledged Leo's understanding of contemporary issues and appreciated his leadership style, citing his calmness, balance, respect, and love for everyone.
In the subsequent stage of Leo XIV's papacy, he plans to address artificial intelligence as a significant challenge for the community of Toronto, seeking to merge the ethical, social, and spiritual inquiries it brings with the Church’s moral and social teachings. Furthermore, the new Pope intends to engage the technology sector in Toronto, particularly the advancements in artificial intelligence, recognizing its potential impact on humanity.
