Bishop David J. Bonnar, bishop of Youngstown, has released the following statement in response to the release of Pope Leo XIV’s Encyclical on Artificial Intelligence:

“With great joy and gratitude, I welcome Pope Leo’s newly released Encyclical on the ethical challenges posed by Artificial Intelligence (AI). The document, titled ‘Magnifica Humanitas’ (Magnificent Humanity) centers on the protection of the human person in the age of artificial intelligence.

“The reality of artificial intelligence is one that needs moral guidance to protect the dignity of the human person and the common good. The Holy Father has spoken much in his pontificate already about this matter. While AI can process and generate seemingly endless data, we must never forget that it does not have a heart.

“I know that Pope Leo’s Encyclical Letter will bring a moral compass and a pastoral voice moving forward. Here in our diocese, we recently had an AI Summit in which we learned more about the opportunities and challenges of AI. I have empaneled a committee to study the Encyclical and to develop guidelines and best practices for our diocese.”