VATICAN CITY (AP) - Pope Leo XIV articulated his vision for the papacy on Saturday, emphasizing artificial intelligence (AI) as a crucial challenge for humanity and reaffirming the priorities set by his predecessor, Pope Francis. This declaration marks a significant moment in Leo's tenure, establishing him not only as the first American pope but also as a leader with a distinct approach towards current global issues.
In a significant gesture to mark his papacy, Leo visited a sanctuary dedicated to the Madonna located south of Rome. This site holds special significance for his Augustinian order and his namesake, Pope Leo XIII. Upon arrival in Genazzano, townspeople gathered to greet him outside the Madre del Buon Consiglio sanctuary, a location that has attracted pilgrims since the 15th century. The sanctuary was elevated to a basilica under the previous Pope Leo, who also expanded the adjacent convent. After a moment of prayer in the church, Leo addressed the gathered townsfolk, expressing the dual gift and responsibility they have in hosting the Madonna.
After his outing, Leo took time to pray at the tomb of Pope Francis at St. Mary Major Basilica before returning to the Vatican. This excursion followed his inaugural formal audience with the cardinals who elected him, where he reiterated Francis’ commitment to an inclusive Church that serves the “least and rejected” members of society. Leo commended the reforms initiated during the Second Vatican Council, highlighting a continued dedication to the Church's modernizing efforts.
In outlining his priorities, Leo pointed to the implications of AI, noting its potential threats to human dignity, justice, and labor. He recalled the influence of his namesake, Pope Leo XIII, who famously addressed workers' rights and capitalism in his 1891 encyclical, Rerum Novarum. Leo emphasized the relevance of this historical perspective in the face of ongoing technological advancements and social change.
In a forward-looking gesture, the Vatican disclosed details regarding Leon’s motto and coat of arms, which he retained from his time as the Bishop of Chiclayo, Peru. The motto, “In Illo uno unum,” reflects John Augustine’s teachings on unity, emphasizing the oneness of the Church despite its many members. His pectoral cross, a gift from the Augustinian order upon becoming a cardinal, features relics of St. Augustine and his mother, St. Monica, highlighting Leo's deep connection to the Augustinian heritage.
During his address, Leo made explicit connections to Pope Francis and his mission statement, “The Joy of the Gospel,” portraying his own papacy as a continuation of Francis’ vision. He underscored the missionary nature of the Church and emphasized the importance of listening to the faithful, especially in their authentic expressions of popular piety. Leo's speech reflected a commitment to fostering a Church that engages in meaningful dialogue with contemporary society.
Leo’s election marked a swift conclusion to the conclave, held on Thursday. He emerged as the 267th pontiff after receiving an overwhelming majority of votes—more than 100 out of 133—during just the fourth ballot. This rapid selection process is particularly noteworthy given the diverse makeup of the conclave, which represented a wide array of global perspectives.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who was viewed as a leading candidate for the papacy, extended his congratulations to Leo, praising his grasp of contemporary issues and his leadership skills. Parolin specifically recognized Leo’s ability to navigate complex situations with calmness and care, reflecting an admiration for his approach to governance both in Peru and at the Vatican.
Pope Leo XIV’s early actions and statements set a tone of continuity with the legacy of Pope Francis while also expressing a unique vision for addressing the challenges posed by modern advancements like AI. His commitment to the Church’s social teaching and focus on inclusivity promise to shape the direction of the papacy in the years to come.
