Following our reflections in July and August, which summarized and presented the main themes of Magnifica Humanitas, this presentation seeks to focus our attention on concrete ways of putting its teachings into practice in our daily lives. Doing so can greatly benefit us personally, within our families, and in our larger communities.
Indeed, Pope Leo XIV’s reflection on artificial intelligence is neither abstract nor theoretical. It is the profound analysis of a keen observer of today’s world. Grounded in a deep understanding of the human person and enlightened by faith in God, his reflection addresses the concrete realities of everyday life. This is why he offers practical recommendations and courageous calls to action, especially to those in positions of leadership, so that the common good and the dignity of humanity may be protected. Even more importantly, Pope Leo proposes concrete responsibilities for governments, technology developers, and AI users alike, so that artificial intelligence may truly serve the good of every person.
As followers of Christ, we have a duty to listen to the teaching of the Pope, the Shepherd of the universal Church. Beyond that, this teaching is so enlightening and beneficial that we would deprive ourselves of a great good if we failed to incorporate it into our lives.
When speaking of the family, special attention must be given to children, adolescents, and young adults. They are in the midst of their growth and development and need a sound education to face both the challenges of today and those of the future. Pope Leo’s reflections on artificial intelligence, robotics, and emerging technologies are consistently motivated by a concern for future generations. For this reason, parents and educators should take Magnifica Humanitas seriously, especially its practical recommendations designed to support them in their mission of educating young people, both at home and in every educational setting.
1. Protect Sacred Times from Screens
Choose certain moments when phones, tablets, and AI tools are put away:
- Family meals
- Prayer time
- Sunday Mass
- Family conversations before bedtime
This teaches children that people are more important than devices and that relationships come before technology.
A simple family reminder: “At this moment, we give our full attention to God and to one another.”
2. Teach Children to Ask: “Is This True?”
Artificial intelligence can produce information that appears convincing but is not always accurate. Children should learn not to accept everything they see online without discernment.
Parents can encourage them to ask three simple questions:
- Is it true?
- Who created it?
- Does it reflect Christian values?
These questions foster critical thinking and help protect families from misinformation and manipulation. Pope Leo emphasizes the importance of truth and personal responsibility in the digital age.
3. Use Technology to Create, Not Just Consume
Encourage children to use technology for:
- Learning a new skill
- Creating art or music
- Researching school projects
- Serving others
Rather than asking, “How much screen time?” ask instead, “What are we using this technology for?”
Technology should help people grow in wisdom, creativity, and service.
4. Keep Human Relationships at the Center
No AI can ever replace:
- A parent’s guidance
- A friend’s presence
- A teacher’s encouragement
- A grandparent’s wisdom
Families can commit themselves to discussing important decisions, moral questions, and personal struggles with trusted people—not only with AI tools or social media.
A simple family reminder: “When life is important, talk to a person, not just a machine.”
5. Pray and Discern Before Adopting New Technologies
Not every new app or AI tool belongs in the home.
Before introducing new technologies, parents can ask:
- Will this help our family love God and our neighbor?
- Will it strengthen or weaken our relationships?
- Will it help our children grow in virtue?
A brief family prayer before making important technology decisions can be very meaningful:
“Lord, help us use technology wisely, so that it serves our family and never replaces our humanity.”
6. A Word to Young Learners
Going to school means learning to read, write, and calculate. These efforts help build and strengthen a child’s brain. Overreliance on artificial intelligence, however, can weaken the learning process because it reduces mental effort and gradually impoverishes neural connections. As a result, children may lose the ability to think independently.
This is what has been called “cognitive debt.” The more we allow a machine to think in our place, the less our own brain is exercised, and the less capable it becomes of independent reasoning.
If AI completes students’ homework for them, they themselves become intellectually poorer. AI always offers the easier path, but for a developing brain, constant ease is a slow poison. It is not ease that brings lasting growth; it is effort, perseverance, and practice that produce genuine learning and lasting success.
A Pastoral Closing Reflection
Pope Leo reminds us that the real question is not whether artificial intelligence is good or bad. The real question is whether technology helps us become more fully human.
In a Christian family, technology is a useful tool, but people are priceless treasures. Our goal is not simply to raise children who are experts in artificial intelligence, but disciples of Christ who know how to use every tool wisely, truthfully, responsibly, and with love.
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