The Church of the Most Precious Blood in Sidmouth recently hosted a discussion on Pope Leo’s first Encyclical — Magnifica Humanitas. Their report reflects what they discussed at that meeting and we hope it encourages other parishes to come together to reflect on this important Encyclical. We are grateful to Dr Olive O’Brien and Eleanor Selby for sharing their reflections.
Magnifica Humanitas is the Encyclical by Pope Leo XIV which focuses on safeguarding the dignity of the human person in the age of artificial intelligence. In the time of Artificial Intelligence, humanity is faced with a choice. Whether to let itself be guided by technology and progress as the only principles on which to build our civilization, or should it put at the center the dignity of the person, reducing technical progress to an instrument.
The meeting started with two questions: What you know about AI (Artificial Intelligence) and what one word would describe what you think is magnificent about humanity?
Eleanor noted “In groups, we were asked to summarise the magnificence of humanity in one word, and answers such as “community”, “love”, and “compassion” highlighted how it is our human ability to empathise and care for others which sets us apart from computer programs. Though AI can produce images and essays, without human emotion and connection at the centre, it is simply generating rather than creating.”
In the final part of the meeting, the group looked at Pope Leo’s outline of how each of us—individually and as a community—have a part to play to try to make AI work for the benefit of our society today. Can we use AI to build a Civilisation of Love, rooted in the Social Doctrine of the Church?
The Vatican has produced many resources to help us get to grips with this document including an infographic on a single A4 sheet for each chapter of the encyclical. Dr O’Brien is also happy to share her resources with any parish interested in running a similar event. Please contact sidmouth@prcdtr.org.uk if you would like to be put in touch. Caritas Diocese of Plymouth can also help with resources and information.