Pope Leo XIV has launched his first encyclical, focusing on the ethical implications of artificial intelligence (AI) in society. Signed on May 15, the encyclical spans around 43,000 words and emphasizes that AI must serve humanity rather than replace it. The Pope warns against the concentration of AI control in the hands of a few and advocates for stringent ethical limits on its use in warfare. He calls for government regulation of powerful AI companies to ensure that the distinctive 'grandeur of humanity' is preserved, particularly as technological advancements threaten jobs. In a proactive measure, the Pope has created an in-house study group dedicated to exploring the implications of AI, highlighting the urgency of addressing its rapid integration into society. During a meeting shortly after his election in 2025, Pope Leo expressed that the Catholic Church has a responsibility to offer its social teachings to confront the challenges posed by AI on issues of human dignity, justice, and labor. By addressing AI in this context, Pope Leo XIV hints that future debates surrounding the technology will increasingly incorporate religious and philosophical discussions.