CAFOD statement and Q&A on Magnifica Humanitas

Pope Leo XIV has just delivered a clarion call to the world, on safeguarding humanity in an age of AI. Appearing alongside the co-founder of AI company Anthropic, Christopher Olah, and UK professor Anna Rowlands from the University of Durham, Pope Leo XIV shared a document known as an "Encyclical" - his letter to the world.

Like all popes, Pope Leo has a unique position on the world stage. But there's plenty that makes today different:

- It's the first time someone from the world of technology has been part of a Vatican announcement like this
-It's also the first time a pope has been present in person at the launch of an encyclical.

The world's first North American pope is a keen mathematician. He understands computers and has met with leaders from Silicon Valley many times. Today, his encyclical, entitled 'Magnifica Humanitas' (Magnificent Humanity), delivers a challenge to the world and gives the church's response to questions everyone is asking: "Do human beings matter more than machines?" and if so, "Why?"

Christine Allen, CEO and Director of Catholic aid agency CAFOD, said: "As AI redefines our workplaces and lives, Pope Leo's message speaks of the inherent dignity of humankind. We are not simply instruments of production but living beings, entrusted with a moral compass. In a world full of imbalances, we have a duty to use AI responsibly. Today's message is that it should not be used to further exacerbate inequality and suffering.

"These systems can reflect the interest and biases of their creators, and the Holy Father warns us of the obvious risk: that AI used wrongly has the power to increase inequality in our world; widening the gap between rich and poor instead of reducing it. Embracing all that the most brilliant minds among us can envisage must not cost us the ability and freedom to choose right from wrong.

"At a time of great global turmoil, Pope Leo's words are a timely reminder that the best of our world is found in human relationships: when people listen to people and come together for the benefit of everyone."

To read further CAFOD resources see: What is Magnifica Humanitas? Your questions answered on Pope Leo's first encyclical: https://cafod.org.uk/pray/magnifica-humanitas-explained