The Journal: Why the New Pope Is Taking on AI

Episode Release Date: June 25, 2025
Hosts: Ryan Knutson and Jessica Mendoza
Producers: The Wall Street Journal & Gimlet
Description: The most important stories about money, business, and power. Hosted by Ryan Knutson and Jessica Mendoza, "The Journal" is a co-production of Spotify and The Wall Street Journal.

Introduction

In the June 25, 2025 episode of The Journal, hosts Jessica Mendoza and Ryan Knutson delve into the intriguing intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and the Catholic Church. The episode explores how the newly elected Pope Leo XIV is prioritizing AI as a central issue of his pontificate, marking a significant shift for an institution not traditionally associated with cutting-edge technology.

Pope Leo XIV’s Focus on AI

The episode begins with a discussion on the pervasive concerns surrounding AI, as highlighted by various experts. Jessica Mendoza introduces the topic by emphasizing the widespread debate on the moral and ethical implications of AI.

Jessica Mendoza [00:05]: "When it comes to artificial intelligence and the moral and ethical issues it poses, philosophers, engineers, tech executives, podcasters, substack writers. Everyone seems to have an opinion."

Pope Leo XIV has made AI a top priority just two months into his papacy. Margarita Stancari, The Wall Street Journal’s correspondent in Rome, explains that the Pope’s early speeches and actions indicate a strong commitment to addressing AI's impact on humanity.

Margarita Stancari [01:05]: "Artificial intelligence is not just a second thought for the Pope. He is putting the issue front and center of his papacy."

Historical Context and Comparison to Past Popes

The discussion transitions to the legacy of Pope Francis, who, despite not being particularly tech-savvy, expressed concerns about technology's impact on society, particularly social media and its effects on relationships and youth.

Jessica Mendoza [03:34]: "Pope Francis, who died recently, he wasn't known for being particularly tech savvy at all. In fact, he joked early on in his papacy that he didn't really know how to use a computer."

Mendoza and Stancari draw parallels between Pope Leo XIV and Pope Leo XIII, the latter being known as the "Pope of the Workers" for his efforts to protect laborers during the Industrial Revolution through the encyclical Rerum Novarum.

Margarita Stancari [10:06]: "Pope Leo XIII was the first pope to systematically confront the social impact of the Industrial revolution... he issued this groundbreaking encyclical called Rerum Novarum."

Pope Leo XIV echoes this legacy by addressing the social implications of AI, particularly concerning human dignity and labor.

AI Conference at the Vatican

One of the pivotal events discussed is the two-day AI conference hosted at the Vatican, themed "Ethics and Governance." The conference brought together tech executives, lawyers, and academics to deliberate on AI's ethical dimensions.

Margarita Stancari [11:32]: "And it was in this room called the Salareggia... it was a really kind of remarkable place to be in."

Key highlights from the conference include debates on the benefits and risks of AI. Notable discussions featured Aidan Gomez, CEO of AI company Cohere, who advocated for balanced guidance on both the opportunities and challenges presented by AI.

Aidan Gomez [13:22]: "It's important to also see the opportunity to see what can be done in healthcare and education, in productivity, and to have guidance on that front and not just guidance on the downsides."

Pope Leo XIV, in his address, acknowledged both the positive impacts of AI—such as advancements in healthcare and scientific research—and its potential dangers, urging for responsible governance and ethical oversight.

Margarita Stancari [14:12]: "He called for urgent need for serious reflection and ongoing discussion on the inherently ethical dimension of AI."

Church’s Role and Influence in AI Regulation

The episode explores the Vatican's unique position in influencing AI ethics and regulation. Archbishop Edgar Pena Parra, the Vatican official in charge of AI, emphasizes the Church's expertise in humanity and its potential contributions to areas like education and healthcare.

Archbishop Edgar Pena Parra [16:32]: "We can offer our expertise in humanity... in education, health, and the poor people."

Margarita Stancari raises the question of whether the Catholic Church possesses the soft power to influence global AI regulations. The Archbishop responds by highlighting the Church's moral authority, which, while not legislative, can shape global conversations and ethical frameworks.

Margarita Stancari [18:15]: "Its power lies in its moral authority. And to what extent that moral authority can be persuasive depends on the desire of who's listening."

Concluding Insights and Future Implications

As the episode wraps up, hosts discuss upcoming interactions between the Vatican and major tech corporations. Microsoft President Brad Smith and representatives from Google are expected to engage with the Vatican, signaling ongoing dialogue between tech giants and the Church.

Jessica Mendoza [17:54]: "This month, Microsoft President Brad Smith is expected to meet with Vatican officials in Rome."

Pope Leo XIV's proactive stance on AI suggests that the Vatican will continue to play a significant role in shaping the ethical landscape of artificial intelligence, advocating for technologies that uphold human dignity and societal well-being.

Jessica Mendoza [18:57]: "The task set before you is not easy, but it is one of vital importance... I cordially invoke upon you and your families the divine blessings of wisdom, joy and peace."

Final Thoughts

The episode of The Journal underscores the Vatican's emerging role in the global discourse on artificial intelligence. By prioritizing AI ethics and governance, Pope Leo XIV is positioning the Catholic Church as a pivotal moral authority in navigating the complexities of technological advancement.

Additional Reporting by: Emily Glaser, Drew Hinshaw, and Keech Hagee

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