Artificial Intelligence, Human Wisdom, and the Heart of the Gospel

Artificial Intelligence, or AI, seems to be everywhere these days. It helps write emails, answer questions, create images, and even assist in making important decisions. For many people, it is exciting. For others, it is concerning. Yet as Catholics, we are called to approach new technologies not with fear, but with wisdom.

In his recent encyclical Magnifica Humanitas (“The Greatness of Humanity”), Pope Leo XIV reminds us that technology should always serve the human person and never diminish the dignity God has given us. He warns that while AI can be a powerful tool for good, we must never allow it to replace our humanity, our relationships, our moral responsibility, or our openness to God.

This teaching echoes the words of Sacred Scripture. In the Book of Genesis, we read that humanity is created in the image and likeness of God (Genesis 1:27). Our value does not come from our efficiency, productivity, or ability to process information. Our dignity comes from being beloved children of God.

AI can process data. It cannot love. AI can generate words. It cannot pray. AI can imitate conversation. It cannot form a relationship with Jesus Christ. That distinction is important.

The danger is not that machines become human. The danger is that humans begin to act like machines.

When every problem has a quick answer, we can lose the patience needed for wisdom. When every moment is filled with screens and notifications, we can forget how to listen. When technology becomes the center of our attention, God can slowly move to the margins of our lives.

Jesus tells us, “What profit is there for one to gain the whole world and forfeit his life?” (Mark 8:36). In today’s world, we might ask a similar question: What good is having unlimited information if we lose sight of truth,   virtue, and our relationship with God?

The Church is not opposed to technology. In fact, the Vatican recognizes AI can assist in education, healthcare, scientific discovery, and other areas that benefit humanity. The question is not whether we should use these tools, but whether we are using them in ways that honor God and respect human dignity.

Perhaps the challenge for us this week is simple. Before turning to our phones, turn to prayer. Before asking a machine for an answer, spend time listening to God’s voice in Scripture. Before scrolling through another screen, spend a few moments in conversation with a spouse, a friend, a child, or the Lord Himself.

Technology is a gift when it serves humanity. Faith reminds us that humanity flourishes only when it remains connected to God.

As Pope Leo reminds us, the future should not be built on technology alone, but on truth, human dignity, and the wisdom that comes from God. May we use every tool available to us wisely, while never forgetting that the greatest intelligence is not artificial it is the wisdom of a heart rooted in Christ.

Blessings,

Deacon Mike