Pope Leo XIV recently outlined his vision for his papacy, emphasizing the importance of artificial intelligence as a major concern for humanity. He also pledged to continue some of the key priorities set by his predecessor, Pope Francis. In a symbolic gesture marking his own style of leadership, Leo made his first public appearance by visiting a sanctuary dedicated to the Madonna, a significant place for his Augustinian order and his namesake, Pope Leo XIII.
The townspeople of Genazzano eagerly awaited Leo’s arrival outside the main church where the Madre del Buon Consiglio sanctuary is located. This sanctuary, managed by Augustinian friars, has been a place of pilgrimage for centuries. Pope Leo XIII had elevated it to a minor basilica in the early 1900s. After offering prayers in the church, Leo interacted with the locals, emphasizing the special gift and responsibility they had in having the Madonna in their midst. He bestowed a blessing on the crowd before returning to the Vatican in a black Volkswagen, stopping to pray at Francis’ tomb on the way back.
During his first formal audience with the cardinals who elected him, Leo reiterated his commitment to Pope Francis’ mission of creating a more inclusive and caring Catholic Church. As the first American pope, Leo expressed his dedication to the reforms of the Second Vatican Council, which aimed to modernize the church. He highlighted artificial intelligence as a pressing issue that challenges human dignity, justice, and labor.
In a nod to his predecessor, Leo chose to retain his bishopric motto and coat of arms from Chiclayo, Peru, emphasizing unity within the church. The motto, “In Illo uno unum,” reflects the idea that Christians are united in Christ. His pectoral cross contains relics of St. Augustine and his mother, St. Monica, underscoring his connection to the Augustinian order and its values of poverty, service, and evangelization.
Leo’s choice of name pays homage to Pope Leo XIII, known for his contributions to modern Catholic social thought, particularly through his encyclical Rerum Novarum. Leo emphasized his alignment with his predecessor’s teachings in addressing contemporary challenges presented by artificial intelligence and the need to uphold human dignity, justice, and labor.
The election of Pope Leo XIV garnered reactions from leaders worldwide, acknowledging the significance of his papacy. Despite a quick conclave process, Leo’s election was met with enthusiasm and support from the cardinals. His leadership qualities and understanding of current issues were praised by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who commended Leo’s calm demeanor, balanced approach, and compassion for all.
As Leo embarks on his papacy, his dedication to the values of unity, inclusivity, and social justice set the tone for his leadership. With a focus on addressing the challenges posed by artificial intelligence and upholding human dignity, Leo’s papacy promises to navigate the complexities of the modern world while staying true to the teachings of the Catholic Church.
