Pope Leo XIV asks priests to stop using AI tools like ChatGPT to write sermons

He addressed the growing role of technology in daily life and cautioned against relying on it for spiritual guidance

Pope Leo XIV has warned priests against using artificial intelligence tools such as ChatGPT to write their sermons, stating that AI can never replace lived faith or personal experience.

Speaking during a meeting with clergy from the Diocese of Rome, the Pope addressed the growing role of technology in daily life and cautioned against relying on it for spiritual guidance.

As reported by Vatican News, he described turning to AI for sermon writing as a “temptation”, warning that outsourcing homilies to bots could weaken a priest’s intellectual discipline.

“Like all the muscles in the body, if we do not use them, if we do not move them, they die. The brain needs to be used, so our intelligence must also be exercised a little so as not to lose this capacity,” he said. “To give a true homily is to share faith [and AI] will never be able to share faith.”

He stressed that preaching is not merely about structure or delivery, but about authenticity rooted in belief and personal conviction.

“If we can offer a service that is inculturated in the place, in the parish where we are working, people want to see your faith, your experience of having known and loved Jesus Christ.”

The remarks form part of the Pope’s broader concerns regarding emerging technologies. He has previously addressed the rapid rise of AI chatbots and virtual influencers, warning that such tools could risk replacing genuine human relationships if not used carefully.