Pope Leo XIV will release his first encyclical, Magnifica humanitas, on May 25, 2026, to address the ethical implications of safeguarding human dignity in the era of artificial intelligence.

Key Points

• The encyclical, titled Magnifica humanitas, is dated May 15 to coincide with the 135th anniversary of Pope Leo XIII’s Rerum novarum.
• A formal presentation is scheduled for May 25 at 11:30 a.m. in the Vatican’s Synod Hall.
• Speakers include Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, Cardinal Michael Czerny, and Anthropic co-founder Christopher Olah.
• Academic contributors include Professor Anna Rowlands of Durham University and Professor Leocadie Lushombo of the Jesuit School of Theology.
• Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin will provide closing remarks before a final address and blessing from Pope Leo XIV.

Why it Matters

This document represents a significant intersection between Catholic social teaching and the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence. By engaging with industry experts and theologians, the Vatican aims to establish a moral framework for how emerging technologies impact human rights and global development.