In a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, Pope Francis has made it clear that his primary concern lies not in the advancements of AI but in the development of human intelligence. Speaking to Church communication professionals on January 27, 2025, at the Vatican’s Clementine Hall, the 88-year-old pontiff stressed the importance of fostering ethical, hope-filled, and human-centered communication, particularly in the digital age.
While acknowledging the vast opportunities AI presents, Pope Francis warned against idolizing technology and instead urged communicators to focus on wisdom, discernment, and moral responsibility. His address came at the conclusion of the Catholic Church’s Jubilee of the World of Communications, a global event that saw over 10,000 participants from 138 countries engage in discussions about the future of faith-based communication.
As AI continues to revolutionize industries, including journalism, marketing, and even religious outreach, the Pope’s message serves as a call for ethical reflection, reminding communicators that technology should serve humanity, not the other way around.
A Biblical Perspective on Networking and Digital Communication
Pope Francis used biblical imagery to emphasize the concept of “networking.” Drawing inspiration from Jesus’ call to Peter to become a “fisher of men,” the Pope explained that effective communication in today’s world requires “skills, knowledge, and resources” to spread truth and hope. He likened digital networks to fishermen’s nets, capable of either capturing valuable knowledge or becoming entangled in misinformation and despair.
“Let us think of how much we could accomplish together—thanks to the new tools of the digital era and to artificial intelligence—if instead of turning technology into an idol, we were more committed to networking,” the Pope said.
This message is especially relevant in an era dominated by AI-generated content, deepfakes, and digital misinformation. While AI has made communication faster and more efficient, it has also raised ethical concerns about truth, authenticity, and manipulation. Pope Francis emphasized that communicators have a moral duty to use these tools responsibly, ensuring that their message fosters unity rather than division.
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Concerns About Human Intelligence in the Age of AI
Pope Francis made a striking statement during his speech, saying, “What worries me—more than artificial intelligence—is natural intelligence, the intelligence that we must develop.” His words underscore a deep concern: while AI technology is rapidly advancing, human wisdom, ethics, and discernment are at risk of being overlooked.
In the Pope’s view, the greatest challenge is not AI’s growth but humanity’s ability to use it wisely. He urged communicators to avoid the temptations of self-promotion, superficiality, and sensationalism, instead advocating for deeper reflection, responsible journalism, and communication that uplifts rather than divides.
This call to action resonates beyond the Church. As AI-generated news articles, social media algorithms, and automated decision-making systems shape public opinion, the need for human intelligence, ethical reasoning, and critical thinking has never been greater. Pope Francis’ message serves as a reminder that while technology can enhance communication, it should never replace human wisdom.
Avoiding the Pitfalls of Digital Vanity and Misinformation
One of the key themes of Pope Francis’ address was the danger of using digital platforms for self-promotion rather than meaningful engagement. He warned communicators against prioritizing personal or institutional branding over truth and ethical responsibility.
“Let us ask ourselves: What do we do to sow hope in the midst of all the despair that surrounds and challenges us?” he asked. “What do we do to overcome the virus of division that undermines our communities? Is our communication inspired by prayer? Or do we limit ourselves to communicating about the Church by merely following the rules laid down by corporate marketing?”
The Pope’s concern is particularly relevant today as social media algorithms prioritize engagement over accuracy, often amplifying sensational or divisive content. Misinformation, fueled by AI-generated content and digital echo chambers, has become a serious societal issue, affecting politics, public health, and religious discourse.
By encouraging communicators to focus on hope and unity, Pope Francis advocates for a communication model that prioritizes ethical responsibility over digital metrics. His message calls for communicators—both within and outside the Church—to evaluate their motivations and ensure that their words serve to heal rather than harm.
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Christian Communication as an Act of Love
For Pope Francis, communication is not merely a profession or strategy but an act of love. He emphasized that Christian communication should not be reduced to “catchphrases or slogans” but should instead reflect genuine care for humanity.
“Communicating is an act of love,” he said. “Only an act of selfless love can produce networks of goodness.”
This perspective challenges modern communication trends, where AI-generated content, automated responses, and algorithm-driven narratives often replace authentic human interaction. While AI can assist in spreading messages more efficiently, Pope Francis stressed that the essence of communication should remain deeply human.
His statement reflects a broader concern about how digitalization and automation might erode personal relationships and empathy. In a world where AI chatbots, automated customer service, and machine-generated content are becoming increasingly prevalent, the Pope’s words serve as a reminder of the irreplaceable value of genuine human connection.
Beyond the Church: A Call for Open and Inclusive Communication
Pope Francis concluded his speech by reminding communicators that Catholic communication should not be confined to internal Church discussions. Instead, it should be open, inclusive, and capable of addressing broader societal issues.
“Catholic communication is not something isolated; it is not just for Catholics. It is not a fenced-in area where we can keep to ourselves, a sect where we can talk to each other,” he said. “It is the open space of a living witness that knows how to listen to and interpret the signs of the kingdom.”
This emphasis on inclusivity aligns with the Pope’s broader vision for the Church’s role in the modern world. He has consistently advocated for dialogue between different faiths, cultures, and ideologies, emphasizing that true communication requires openness and mutual respect.
In his final words, Pope Francis urged communicators to embrace their mission with courage and joy, reminding them that their role is not merely to transmit information but to bear witness to the truth and hope of the Gospel.
“Today the Lord often knocks from the inside because he wants us, as Christians, to let him out. Too often we keep the Lord to ourselves. We must let the Lord out—and not keep him somewhat ‘enslaved’ for our own purposes.”
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FAQs
- Why is Pope Francis more concerned about human intelligence than AI?
He believes that while AI is advancing rapidly, human wisdom, ethics, and critical thinking are at risk of being neglected. - What did Pope Francis say about AI in communication?
He emphasized that AI should be used responsibly and ethically, ensuring that technology serves humanity rather than replacing human intelligence. - What is the significance of ‘networking’ in the Pope’s message?
He used biblical imagery to highlight that digital networks should spread truth and hope rather than misinformation and despair. - Why did Pope Francis warn against self-promotion in digital media?
He cautioned communicators to focus on ethical responsibility rather than using digital platforms for personal or institutional branding. - How does the Pope view misinformation in digital communication?
He sees it as a major challenge, urging communicators to prioritize accuracy and hope rather than sensationalism. - What does the Pope mean by ‘communication as an act of love’?
He believes that true communication should reflect genuine care for humanity rather than being driven by algorithms and marketing tactics. - How does Pope Francis suggest overcoming digital division?
By promoting hope, ethical communication, and inclusivity rather than engaging in divisive rhetoric. - What is the Pope’s stance on Catholic communication?
He insists it should be open, inclusive, and not limited to discussions within the Church. - How does Pope Francis suggest using AI responsibly?
By ensuring that AI tools enhance human wisdom and ethics rather than replacing them. - What is the Pope’s message to communicators?
To communicate with courage, joy, and a commitment to truth, ensuring that their words uplift and unite rather than divide.