Pope Leo Warns on AI and Modern Addictions In this week\u2019s Vatican updates, Pope Leo XIV delivered a powerful reminder that the Church must be anchored in the person of Christ rather than in worldly measures of success. Addressing a record number of pilgrims at his weekly general audience, the Holy Father cautioned against trends that prioritize popularity, influence, or institutional power over the Gospel itself. \u201cFaith must remain rooted in the Gospel,\u201d he affirmed, emphasizing that the strength of the Church comes not from external acclaim but from spiritual integrity and the steadfast witness of believers. A Call for Ethical Leadership in Artificial Intelligence Looking ahead to pressing global challenges, Pope Leo XIV urged Catholics\u2014and all people of goodwill\u2014to take an active role in shaping ethical standards for emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence. As debates over AI ethics intensify worldwide, the Pope stressed that technology must remain at the service of humanity. He warned against systems \u201cthat prioritize profit over people,\u201d insisting that human dignity must always be the guiding principle in the development and deployment of AI. Cardinal Parolin Highlights Children\u2019s Vulnerability in the Digital Age The theme of technology continued at a major international conference in Rome, where Cardinal Pietro Parolin delivered a strong appeal for protecting children in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. He underscored the risks posed by AI-driven platforms\u2014from data exploitation to harmful content\u2014and called for global cooperation to ensure that technological advancement never comes at the expense of children\u2019s safety or well-being. Pope Warns Against Modern Addictions Pope Leo XIV also issued a sober warning about the rise of modern addictions, including pornography and compulsive internet use. Calling them \u201csilent destroyers\u201d of relationships, freedom, and personal integrity, he urged pastoral leaders to accompany those struggling with these challenges and to promote a culture of genuine human connection. A Glimpse into the Pope\u2019s Favorite Films Ending the week on a lighter note, the Holy Father shared some of his favorite classic films, among them The Sound of Music and It\u2019s a Wonderful Life. He praised these works for their uplifting messages and enduring values, reminding the faithful of the power of art to inspire hope, joy, and gratitude. Receive the most important news from EWTN Vatican via WhatsApp. It has become increasingly difficult to see Catholic news on social media. Subscribe to our free channel today EWTN Vatican on WhatsApp Andreas Thonhauser Would you like to receive the latest updates on the Pope and the Vatican Receive articles and updates from our EWTN Newsletter. More news related to this article Cardinal presides over act of reparation in St. Peter\u2019s following desecration of altar Vatican Orders Investigation into Swiss Clergy Sexual Abuse Allegations ‘No one can silence their voice’: Pope Leo XIV honors modern martyrs at ecumenical service A bell blessed by Pope Francis will be the voice of the unborn in Africa Ganswein’s book on his life as a Secretary of Pope Benedict XVI Vatican unveils Nativity scene honoring St. Francis of Assisi and devotion\u2019s 800-year-old origin<\/p>\n