**Pope Leo XIV: Embracing a Modern Church in the Footsteps of Francis**

Pope Leo XIV outlines his vision for the Church by building on his predecessor's teachings and addressing contemporary issues such as artificial intelligence.

In his inaugural address to the Roman Catholic cardinals on Saturday, newly elected Pope Leo XIV articulated a vision that follows the progressive path initiated by Pope Francis. Emphasizing modernity and inclusivity, Leo pledged to address the marginalized while fostering collaboration among church leaders. Drawing inspiration from Francis’ 2013 document, Evangelii Gaudium, he underscored aspirations for enhanced collegiality, popular piety, and a genuine embrace of dialogue with modern society.

Notably, Leo highlighted the necessity of adapting to rapid advancements in technology, particularly the rise of artificial intelligence, which he noted presents unprecedented challenges for safeguarding human dignity and justice. “The Church possesses a vast treasury of social teachings that serve as guidance in this evolving landscape,” he stated, reflecting on the pivotal role of the Church in moral discussions surrounding emerging technologies.

The new pope also shared the significance behind his name choice, referencing Pope Leo XIII, who championed social rights in the context of the Industrial Revolution through his influential document “Rerum Novarum.” Leo XIV emphasized that today's societal shifts due to technological evolution necessitate a reevaluation of the Church’s stance on labor and ethics.

Throughout his address, Leo affirmed the legacy of Pope Francis, describing him as a “humble servant” whose contributions set an example of selfless dedication. The enthusiastic response from the cardinals present, including insights on priestly and episcopal formation, signifies a shared commitment to continuity in leadership towards an empowered, socially conscious Church.

As Pope Leo XIV steps into his role, it is clear his intentions align with both historic precedent and a forward-thinking outlook aimed at evolving the Church’s impact in the contemporary world.