What does the Catholic Church teach about artificial intelligence? Discover the key lessons of Antiqua et nova, the Vatican’s 2025 note on AI and human dignity.
Introduction: A New Frontier for Catholic Teaching
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming how we live, work, and even pray. But what guidance does the Catholic Church offer for the digital age?
On January 28, 2025, the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith and the Dicastery for Culture and Education released Antiqua et nova (“Ancient and New”), a note on the relationship between artificial and human intelligence.
The document begins by reminding us: “The Christian tradition regards the gift of intelligence as an essential aspect of how humans are created ‘in the image of God’ (Gen. 1:27)” (Antiqua et nova, §1)
This post will unpack the document’s major teachings, explain why they matter, and suggest practical steps for Catholics navigating the digital frontier.
Key Teachings of Antiqua et nova
1. What Is Artificial Intelligence?
The note explains that AI can generate new “artifacts” — text, images, or decisions — at a speed and skill that sometimes surpasses humans. But it also raises ethical concerns:
AI “is designed to learn and make certain choices autonomously… thus, it raises fundamental questions about ethical responsibility and human safety, with broader implications for society as a whole” (Antiqua et nova, §3)
2. Human Intelligence vs. Machine Simulation
While AI mimics certain cognitive processes, it lacks the depth of human reason and contemplation.
“The document begins by distinguishing between concepts of intelligence in AI and in human intelligence” (Antiqua et nova, §6)
Human knowing involves relational, moral, and spiritual dimensions that no machine can replicate.
3. The Crisis of Truth
One urgent danger is misinformation and fabricated content.
AI’s power to generate text or images “raises critical concerns about AI’s potential role in the growing crisis of truth in the public forum” (Antiqua et nova, §3)
Catholics are called to defend truth and resist technologies that spread lies or manipulate perception.
This echoes Pope Francis’ words in Christus Vivit: “Fake news can spread so quickly that it becomes almost impossible to stop.” For Catholics, defending truth is not optional — it is a matter of discipleship (John 8:32).
Example: Deepfake videos could falsely portray religious leaders, undermining trust. AI-written news articles may spread lies before corrections can catch up. Catholics are called to practice digital discernment — fact-checking, slowing down before sharing, and valuing truth over virality.
4. Human Dignity and the Common Good
The note insists that technology must always respect dignity and serve society:
AI use should be directed to “promote human progress and the common good” (Antiqua et nova, §4)
The Church warns against exploitation, loss of work, or inequity caused by unchecked automation.
5. AI in Education
In schools and universities, AI can help but also risks stifling critical thinking:
“Education in the use of forms of artificial intelligence should aim above all at promoting critical thinking… Users of all ages, but especially the young, need to develop a discerning approach” (Antiqua et nova, §82).
Example: Students who outsource all assignments to AI risk losing the joy of discovery. Teachers and parents must guide youth to see AI as a tool, not a crutch.
6. AI and Relationships
AI can simulate conversation, but not empathy.
“No AI application can genuinely experience empathy… True empathy requires the ability to listen, recognize another’s uniqueness, and grasp meaning…even behind their silence” (Antiqua et nova, §61).
For pastoral care, friendship, and family life, the human touch or connection remains irreplaceable. This is why no app can replace confession, Eucharist, or authentic spiritual direction.
7. AI, Peace, and War
Perhaps the most chilling warning comes regarding weaponized AI:
“Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems… are a cause for grave ethical concern because they lack the unique human capacity for moral judgment” (Antiqua et nova, §100).
The Church insists: no machine should ever choose to take the life of a human being. This builds on Gaudium et Spes (1965), which called weapons of indiscriminate destruction “a crime against God and man” (§80).
8. AI and Care for Creation
AI has environmental costs.
“Current AI models consume vast amounts of energy and water, significantly contributing to CO2 emissions and straining resources” (Antiqua et nova, §96).
This aligns with Laudato Si’, where Pope Francis warns that technology cannot be pursued at the expense of creation. Catholics must ask: Does AI serve an integral ecology?
Practical Catholic Response
Here are five practical steps for Catholics based on Antiqua et nova:
- Discern Wisely – Ask whether an AI tool helps you serve truth and dignity.
- Defend Human Dignity – Oppose systems that reduce persons to data.
- Stay Grounded – Remember: no algorithm can replace prayer or the sacraments.
- Educate for Critical Thinking – Use AI as a tool, but don’t let it do the thinking for you.
- Seek the Common Good – Support technology that uplifts the poor and protects creation.
Q&A: Common Catholic Questions on AI
Q: Should Catholics avoid AI altogether?
No. The Church acknowledges AI’s potential but insists it be used ethically for the common good (Antiqua et nova, §4)
Q: Can AI replace priests or spiritual directors?
No. AI may simulate dialogue, but only a human person can offer authentic pastoral care grounded in the sacraments.
Q: What about AI and misinformation?
Catholics must be vigilant. As the note warns, AI deepens the “crisis of truth” in public life (Antiqua et nova, §3)
Conclusion: Treasures, New and Old
The title Antiqua et nova recalls Matthew 13:52: bringing forth treasures “new and old.” The Church embraces new tools, but always in light of the timeless dignity of the human person.
As AI reshapes society, Catholics must hold firm: technology is a tool, not a master. True intelligence is not code, but the human mind and heart open to God.
“The intrinsic dignity of every man and every woman must be the key criterion in evaluating emerging technologies” (Antiqua et nova, §42).
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