Pope Leo XIV, a Chicago native, warned clergy against using AI to write sermons, saying true homilies require sharing faith, which machines cannot do.

He urged priests to exercise their intelligence and study continuously, cautioning that overreliance on the internet and social media illusions, like TikTok, cannot replace authentic spiritual connection.

The remarks coincided with the Vatican debuting an AI-powered translation system for liturgical celebrations in up to 60 languages, highlighting a careful balance between technology and human devotion.

During Ash Wednesday, Pope Leo XIV personally led traditional Lenten rituals, reflecting on the “ashes of international law and justice” and the broader spiritual and ecological decay in the world, The Irish Star has reported.

He emphasized that Lent is a time to meditate on sin, human responsibility, and the need to nurture critical thinking, ancient wisdom, and reverence for creation.