On Pope Leo’s Visit to Lebanon and Turkey, A.I. Was a Frequent Concern

Peace, Unity, and the Digital Age

During his inaugural journey as the head of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV traveled to Lebanon and Turkey, two nations that have long stood at the crossroads of cultural and religious dialogue. In each country, the pontiff reiterated his long‑standing call for peace and unity among peoples of different faiths.

Beyond the traditional themes of reconciliation, the Pope devoted significant time to addressing the rapid rise of artificial intelligence. He warned that while A.I. offers unprecedented opportunities, it also poses ethical and spiritual challenges that must not be ignored.

Hopeful Vision for A.I.

Speaking to a crowd of students and tech entrepreneurs in Beirut, Leo XIV described A.I. as “a tool that can amplify human creativity and compassion when guided by moral responsibility.” He urged developers to embed values such as respect for human dignity and solidarity into their algorithms.

A Call for Caution

In Istanbul, the pontiff’s remarks took a more cautionary tone. He highlighted the risk of A.I. deepening social divides, spreading misinformation, and eroding personal privacy. “We must ensure that technology serves the common good, not the interests of a few,” he said, emphasizing the Church’s role in fostering ethical discourse.

Bridging Faith and Innovation

Leo XIV’s messages in both nations reflected a broader vision: a world where faith and technology coexist harmoniously. By linking the timeless pursuit of peace with the modern challenges of artificial intelligence, the Pope sought to inspire a generation that can harness digital progress while upholding the core values of compassion and solidarity.