Pope Leo XIV highlighted on Saturday that he chose his papal name to honor Pope Leo XIII, recognizing the latter’s dedication to social issues and the rights of workers during the industrial revolution.
In his remarks made just days after his election, the Pope noted that emerging challenges to workers’ rights now stem from advancements in artificial intelligence, which affect humanity on a broader scale.
“In our current era, the Church offers its wealth of social teachings in response to another industrial revolution, alongside technological innovations in artificial intelligence that present fresh challenges to the preservation of human dignity, justice, and labor,” Pope Leo articulated.
These statements came during his initial meeting with the cardinals since his election on May 8, and they serve as an early glimpse into his vision and priorities as the leader of the Catholic Church.
During this first gathering, Pope Leo also implied that he would continue the legacy of the late Pope Francis, particularly regarding issues of social justice.
“The exemplary lives of my predecessors, especially that of Pope Francis, clearly illustrate a profound commitment to service and a humble simplicity of life—his total devotion to God and his tranquil trust during his passage to the Father,” he remarked.
Pope Francis, who led the Church for 12 years, faced criticism from conservative cardinals who accused him of diluting the Church’s stance on various subjects, including LGBT inclusion and women’s leadership roles.
Pope Leo XIII, a significant source of inspiration for Pope Leo XIV’s name, was elected in 1878 and played a critical role in advancing the Church’s social teachings, particularly concerning workers’ rights.
Pope Leo XIV holds the distinction of being the first American to serve as pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church.
Reuters contributed to this report.
