Pope Leo XIV's Call for Authenticity in Homilies

During a closed-door dialogue with clergy from the Diocese of Rome on February 19, 2023, Pope Leo XIV urged priests to refrain from using artificial intelligence (AI) to write their homilies. He emphasized the importance of personal engagement and the need for priests to exercise their intellectual faculties, stating, “Like all the muscles in the body, if we do not use them, if we do not move them, they die.” The pope asserted that true homilies are about sharing faith, which he believes AI cannot achieve. He expressed that the essence of a homily lies in the personal experience of faith, which should be authentically conveyed to parishioners.

National Catholic ReporterPope Leo XIV tells priests not to use AI to write homilies or seek ‘likes’ on TikTok

Pope Leo also cautioned against the temptation to seek validation through social media platforms like TikTok. He described the pursuit of "likes" and "followers" as an illusion, urging priests to reflect on their true mission of transmitting the message of Jesus Christ. He stated, “It is not you: if we are not transmitting the message of Jesus Christ, perhaps we are mistaken.” The pope highlighted that a life authentically rooted in faith offers a unique perspective that cannot be replicated online.

Pope Leo XIV tells priests not to use AI to write homilies or seek ‘likes’ on TikTok

In his dialogue, Pope Leo addressed the challenges faced by young people today, particularly those from families experiencing crises such as divorce or abandonment. He encouraged priests to be aware of these realities and to accompany young individuals in their struggles. The pope stressed the importance of outreach, urging priests to engage with youth through various initiatives, including sports and cultural activities, rather than solely relying on traditional parish attendance.

Pope Leo XIV tells priests not to use AI to write homilies or seek ‘likes’ on TikTok

Pope Leo XIV also underscored the significance of fostering genuine friendships among priests. He warned against “invidia clericalis,” or clerical envy, and encouraged priests to meet regularly for study, prayer, and fellowship. He shared a positive example from Chicago, where a group of priests maintained a monthly gathering that lasted for decades, emphasizing the value of community in priestly life.

Pope Leo XIV tells priests not to use AI to write homilies or seek ‘likes’ on TikTok

In his remarks, Pope Leo XIV highlighted that “a life of prayer” is fundamental for priests, advocating for meaningful time spent with the Lord rather than rushing through religious routines. He also addressed the issue of euthanasia, urging priests to bear witness to the value of life and to provide spiritual support to those facing suffering.

Pope Leo XIV tells priests not to use AI to write homilies or seek ‘likes’ on TikTok

While the pope's message resonates with many, some critics argue that the integration of technology, including AI, could enhance the accessibility of religious teachings. They contend that embracing modern tools does not necessarily detract from the authenticity of faith-sharing.

Pope Leo XIV tells priests not to use AI to write homilies or seek ‘likes’ on TikTok

• “To give a true homily is to share faith," and artificial intelligence "will never be able to share faith," the pope added.” — Pope Leo XIV

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• “We must organize, think, seek initiatives that can be a form of outreach.” — Pope Leo XIV

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• “If we ourselves are so negative about our life, and sometimes with less suffering than that borne by many people, how can we say to them: ‘No, you cannot take your life, you must accept it’?” — Pope Leo XIV

Pope Leo XIV tells priests not to use AI to write homilies or seek ‘likes’ on TikTok

Pope Leo XIV's guidance reflects a commitment to authenticity in ministry, urging priests to engage deeply with their faith and their communities while resisting the allure of technology and social media validation.

National Catholic Reporter