Pope Leo XIV, elected last week after the death of Pope Francis, discussed AI during an address to the College of Cardinals on Saturday.

Pope Leo XIV revealed that his papal name was partially inspired by the looming challenges of a world increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence.

Born Robert Francis Prevost, the new pope chose his papal name in reference to Pope Leo XIII (1810-1903) who presided over the Catholic Church during the Industrial Revolution, which ushered in massive social upheaval. Pope Leo XIV sees the AI boom as a similar moment of rapid societal change.

Pope Leo XIV identified artificial intelligence as one of the most critical matters facing humanity during his first formal audience.

The 267th pope entered the great room of the Paul VI Audience Hall adjacent to St. Peter’s Basilica on Monday to cheers. Leo called for the immediate release of imprisoned journalists worldwide and once again spoke of the harms and benefits that artificial intelligence poses.

Pope Leo XIII, who served from 1878 to 1903, led the church into the modern world, emphasizing its moral authority beyond national boundaries. He defended the rights of working people and affirmed the value of science.

The pope has personal ties to Florida's Gulf Coast, including his brother living in Port Charlotte and a friendship with former U.S. Ambassador to the Vatican, Francis Rooney.