The name selected by a recently elected pope typically reflects the values and priorities he aims to maintain during his papacy. For Pope Leo XIV, this choice holds deep significance regarding the challenges he perceives the Catholic Church must face in the contemporary age—especially the emergence of artificial intelligence.

Originally named Robert Francis Prevost, the new pontiff chose the name Leo XIV as an homage to Pope Leo XIII, who guided the Church amid the Industrial Revolution. That period ushered in significant societal transformations, similar to the ongoing technological shift powered by AI. Pope Leo XIV views this connection as central to his purpose.

In his inaugural address to the College of Cardinals, Pope Leo XIV articulated the rationale behind his name, making a direct analogy between the industrial turmoil of the 19th century and the current AI revolution:

“Feeling a calling to persist in this same direction, I opted for the name Leo XIV. There are various reasons for this choice, but primarily because Pope Leo XIII, in his landmark Encyclical Rerum Novarum, tackled the social issue within the framework of the first great industrial revolution. In our time, the Church provides everyone with the wealth of her social teaching as a reaction to another industrial revolution and to advancements in artificial intelligence that present new challenges for upholding human dignity, justice, and labor.”

Pope Leo XIII is celebrated for his pioneering 1891 encyclical Rerum Novarum, which discussed the rights of workers during an era when industrialization had resulted in rampant exploitation and inequality. He advocated for a balance between labor and capital, underscoring both the rights of workers and the significance of private property, while denouncing socialism.

By identifying with Leo XIII, Pope Leo XIV signals a revitalized emphasis on social justice amidst technological upheaval. His message is especially pertinent as AI continues to transform the global job market. Already, AI has triggered job losses and the exploitation of low-wage data labelers, particularly in developing nations. The World Economic Forum’s 2025 Jobs Report forecasts that 41% of employers plan to downsize their workforce because of automation. Likewise, a 2024 report from the International Labor Organization highlights the “invisible labor” underpinning AI systems—often conducted under poor conditions with limited protections.

The Catholic Church has increasingly expressed its concerns regarding the ethical ramifications of AI. Pope Francis, Leo XIV’s predecessor, cautioned in a 2024 message about AI’s potential to warp reality through misleading narratives. In his last public speech, Pope Francis also voiced apprehension about technology supplanting authentic human interaction.

By adopting the name Leo XIV, the new pope is delivering a distinct message: the Church must once again strive to address the moral and social challenges of a transformative period—this time, characterized not by steam engines and factories, but by algorithms and automation.