Pope Leo Warns Youth Against Using AI for Homework While Encouraging Responsible Technology Use

"Utilizing AI responsibly means employing it in ways that foster your personal growth," stated Pope Leo.

While artificial intelligence can serve as a valuable educational tool, Pope Leo advised approximately 15,000 American youth against using it to complete homework assignments during a question-and-answer session on Friday.

In a livestreamed video connection from the Vatican to a national Catholic youth conference held in Indianapolis, Indiana, Leo informed the young attendees that AI is "becoming one of the defining features of our time."

"Responsible AI usage means utilizing it in ways that contribute to your development," the pope emphasized. "Don't request it to complete your homework for you."

Leo, the first American pope, engaged with the youth for approximately 40 minutes during this inaugural event of his six-month papacy, addressing questions about Catholic faith and offering guidance on forming friendships at school.

The pope, who has increasingly criticized US President Donald Trump's anti-immigration policies, also briefly touched on political matters.

He expressed that Jesus wants Christians to be "people who build bridges instead of walls," invoking one of the late Pope Francis' most pointed criticisms of Trump.

"Please exercise caution not to apply political categories when discussing faith or the Church," Leo advised the young people.

"The Church doesn't affiliate with any political party," he clarified. "Rather, she helps shape your conscience... enabling you to think and act with wisdom and love."