Pope Leo XIV has cautioned young people against relying on AI to complete their homework.
Speaking during a livestream from the Vatican to the National Catholic Youth Conference in Indianapolis—an event with about 15,000 youths in attendance—the Pope acknowledged AI as “one of the defining features of our time.” However, he stressed that its responsible use should support personal growth rather than offer shortcuts that undermine genuine learning.
Leo urged teenagers to be intentional with their screen time and to use technology in ways that strengthen faith, community, and real friendships. He noted that while AI can process information at high speed, it cannot provide true wisdom or moral judgement.
His comments echo growing concerns within the Vatican about the influence of AI on youth development. In an earlier message to a Vatican AI ethics conference, he highlighted that access to vast data is not the same as possessing real intelligence—and warned that young people must not allow AI to limit their growth or diminish their dignity.
