Pope Leo XIV Urges Priests to Avoid AI-Generated Homilies and Social Media Validation

Pope Leo XIV has cautioned priests against using artificial intelligence (AI) to write their homilies and warned against seeking validation through social media platforms like TikTok. The Pope’s remarks came during a closed-door dialogue with clergy from the Diocese of Rome on February 19, 2026, and underscore a concern for the authenticity of faith-based communication in the digital age.

The Importance of Human Intelligence and Faith

Pope Leo XIV emphasized the necessity of exercising one’s own intellect, stating, “Like all the muscles in the body, if we do not use them, if we do not move them, they die. The brain needs to be used, so our intelligence must also be exercised a little so as not to lose this capacity.” He specifically warned against the “temptation to prepare homilies with artificial intelligence,” asserting that AI “will never be able to share faith.” The Florida Catholic reported on this guidance.

A Historical Context for AI and Perform

The Pope’s interest in the intersection of artificial intelligence and the dignity of work dates back to the first week of his pontificate. He drew a parallel to Pope Leo XIII, who addressed the challenges of the first industrial revolution with his encyclical “Rerum Novarum.” Vatican News highlighted this connection.

The Pitfalls of Seeking ‘Likes’ Online

Pope Leo XIV also cautioned against the pursuit of online validation, specifically mentioning TikTok. He described seeking “likes” and “followers” as an “illusion on the internet,” emphasizing that true connection comes from authentically sharing the message of Jesus Christ. He warned that focusing on online metrics can lead priests to question their purpose and effectiveness.

Guidance for Young Priests

Addressing young priests, Pope Leo XIV stressed the importance of understanding the challenges faced by the youth they serve. He urged them to be aware of the “serious crises” many young people experience, including family instability and abandonment. He encouraged them to be supportive companions, even as also maintaining a distinct role as a model of faith and a life lived according to religious principles. Vatican News detailed this advice.

Prioritizing Outreach and Friendship

The Pope encouraged priests to actively seek opportunities for outreach and to build genuine friendships with young people, recognizing the increasing loneliness experienced by many, particularly after the pandemic and with increased smartphone use. He advocated for creating opportunities for connection through activities like sports, art, and cultural events.

The Importance of Prayer and Witness

Pope Leo XIV underscored the fundamental importance of a life of prayer for priests, emphasizing that it should be more than a routine recitation of prayers. He also stressed the need for priests to actively witness to the value of life, particularly in the context of discussions surrounding euthanasia. He urged them to personally embody the message they preach.

Communion and Pastoral Care

The Pope also reminded priests of their responsibility to provide pastoral care, specifically mentioning the importance of bringing Communion and the anointing of the sick to parishioners, even as the number of priests declines and the elderly population grows. He cautioned against relying solely on laypeople for these essential duties.

Priestly Fraternity and Mutual Support

Pope Leo XIV encouraged priests to cultivate strong bonds of friendship and mutual support, warning against “clerical envy.” He shared an example of a group of priests in Chicago who met regularly for decades to pray, study, and share fellowship.