Pope Leo XIV Prohibits AI Sermons, Warns of Youth Loneliness

Pope Leo XIV has issued a ban on priests using artificial intelligence to prepare sermons, expressing concerns about the impact of smartphones on youth loneliness. During a recent address to the clergy of the Diocese of Rome on February 26, 2026, the Pope engaged in a question-and-answer session, addressing modern challenges faced by the Church.

Responding to a question from a parish priest about navigating contemporary culture, Pope Leo emphasized the importance of understanding the community served by the clergy. He highlighted his visit to the southern neighborhood of Ostia, stating, “To speak with these people, we must begin by knowing their reality as deeply as possible.” The Pope urged priests to remain actively engaged in their communities, warning against the temptation to rely on artificial intelligence for sermon preparation.

He articulated his belief that meaningful homilies stem from personal faith, asserting that AI cannot replicate the human experience of sharing faith. “Giving a true homily is to share faith,” he remarked, asserting that reliance on technology could diminish the personal touch essential to religious guidance. He further explained, “Like all the muscles in the body, if we do not use 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.”

In addition to addressing the use of technology, the Pope discussed the loneliness experienced by young people today, particularly exacerbated by the pandemic and the pervasive use of smartphones. He encouraged priests to reach out to those who are not actively engaged with the Church, urging them to seek innovative ways to connect with youth. “We must organize, think, seek initiatives that can be a form of outreach,” he stated.

Pope Leo XIV suggested various activities, such as sports and cultural events, as means to engage young people and help them form genuine relationships. He stressed the necessity of personal connections, noting that many young people experience isolation and a lack of meaningful interactions. “They live a kind of distance from others, a coldness, without knowing the richness, the value of truly human relationships,” he explained.

The Pope’s remarks came in response to concerns raised by younger clergy regarding their ability to support peers in a rapidly changing world. He emphasized that understanding the experiences of young people requires time and effort, especially considering that many face challenges such as drug use, crime, and violence.

“We must understand how to offer young people another type of experience of friendship, of sharing, and gradually of communion,” the Pope said, indicating that these efforts should ultimately lead to an invitation to know Jesus.

Pope Leo XIV’s stance on the use of AI in sermon preparation highlights a broader conversation about technology’s role in spirituality and personal connections. His emphasis on authentic relationships serves as a reminder for clergy to remain grounded in their communities and to prioritize personal engagement over technological convenience.