Christian theologians respond to the AI warning from the Pope Leo

Christian Leaders React to Pope Leo XIV’s AI Encyclical

Throughout history, several popes named Leo have made statements that sparked strong reactions. In 1520, Pope Leo X famously referred to Martin Luther as a “wild boar” damaging the Church. Centuries later, Pope Leo XII criticized Bible societies, claiming they spread a distorted gospel. Meanwhile, Pope Leo XIII became widely known for encouraging devotion to the rosary and the Virgin Mary

Now, Pope Leo XIV is drawing attention for a very different reason. His recent encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas, released on May 15, has generated discussion across a broad spectrum of Christian traditions. The document focuses on human dignity and responsibility in the age of artificial intelligence.

“In the encyclical, Leo XIV presents humanity with two contrasting paths: repeating the prideful mistakes symbolized by the Tower of Babel or embracing the rebuilding spirit of post-exilic Jerusalem. Encouraging cooperation and renewal, the pope urges people not to fear engaging with the challenges of the modern era.

“One of the most notable aspects of Magnifica Humanitas is its broad audience. Rather than addressing only Catholics, Leo speaks to Christians of every tradition and to people of goodwill around the world. He calls on all people to reject divisions and work together for the common good.

The response from Protestant and evangelical thinkers has been varied. Some welcomed the pope’s concerns about the ethical implications of artificial intelligence, while others felt his outlook was overly cautious.

“Jay Kranda, an innovation-focused pastor at Saddleback Church, argued that fears about AI replacing humanity may underestimate the uniqueness of human beings. He emphasized that people are created in God’s image and possess qualities that technology cannot replicate. While supporting a careful approach to AI, Kranda believes the technology has tremendous potential to improve society when used responsibly.

Justin Lester, pastor of Friendship Baptist Church in California, appreciated the encyclical’s argument that technology is never neutral and that concentrated power should be viewed as a moral and theological concern. He also praised the document for highlighting the environmental and economic systems that support AI development.

“However, Lester suggested that many of these concerns are already well understood and wished the pope had devoted more attention to the Church’s historical role in systems of exploitation. He pointed to references to slavery within the document and argued that discussions about technological ethics should also include reflection on past institutional failures.

“Others viewed the encyclical as part of a continuing conversation within the papacy about technology. John Dyer, a professor at Dallas Theological Seminary, noted that papal attitudes toward technology have evolved over recent decades from optimism to skepticism and now toward a more balanced realism.

Dyer praised Leo XIV for avoiding extremes, describing the encyclical as a measured assessment of both the opportunities and dangers presented by modern technology. He also welcomed the pope’s recognition of the growing influence that major technology companies hold in society.

“Outside Protestant circles, the document received strong support from theologians in other Christian traditions. Constantine Psimopoulos, an Orthodox Christian bioethicist affiliated with Harvard’s Human Flourishing Program, described the encyclical as a timely reminder of humanity’s unique value in an increasingly technological age.

“According to Psimopoulos, the pope’s emphasis on human dignity closely reflects Orthodox teachings. He argued that while humans are increasingly shaping AI systems, no machine can replace the spiritual depth and moral significance of people created in God’s image. The choices made in developing AI, he said, carry profound ethical consequences.

“Noreen Herzfeld, a professor at St. John’s School of Theology and Seminary, also welcomed Leo’s message. She highlighted the pope’s concern that AI-related industries can contribute to new forms of exploitation, particularly among vulnerable workers involved in data labeling and mineral extraction.

Herzfeld noted that Leo sees these practices as a modern form of slavery that fails to serve the common good. While uncertain whether major technology leaders will embrace the pope’s warning, she believes ordinary people still possess the power to challenge systems that exploit human labor.

“As discussions about artificial intelligence continue to expand, Magnifica Humanitas has emerged as an important contribution to the conversation. Whether praised or criticized, Pope Leo XIV’s message has encouraged Christians from various traditions to reflect on human dignity, technological power, and humanity’s responsibility in shaping the future.