Reflecting on Magnifica Humanitas: Human Dignity, Technology, and the Call to Build a Civilization of Love

Written by Whitney Nagasan-Calo 

I recently participated in a webinar exploring Pope Leo XIV's new encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas, moderated by Anna Johnson, North America Senior Programs Manager for the Laudato Si' Movement. The panel featured Kim Daniels, JD (Georgetown University), Scott Hurd (Catholic Charities USA), Dr. Nicole Flores (University of Virginia), and Dr. Paul Scherz (University of Notre Dame). 

Although much of the public conversation has focused on the document as the Church's "AI encyclical," the panel emphasized that its deeper concern is the safeguarding of human dignity in a rapidly changing world. The encyclical invites us to consider not only how we use technology, but also what kind of society we are creating and what it means to be truly human. 

Kim Daniels described the document as presenting a "people-first vision of AI." She noted that Pope Leo offers a framework rooted in Catholic Social Teaching, asking us to evaluate technologies according to whether they promote human flourishing, solidarity, and the common good. As Daniels observed, the central question is: "How are they serving human dignity? How are they serving the flourishing of real people?" 

A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the danger of measuring human worth solely by productivity and efficiency. Reflecting on a particularly striking section of the encyclical, Daniels shared that modern culture often treats aging, vulnerability, and dependence as problems to be solved. In contrast, Pope Leo offers a vision that recognizes human limitations as part of our shared humanity, unlocking our capacity for compassion, relationship, and love. 

Dr. Paul Scherz highlighted the encyclical's call to slow down, noting he was especially moved by Pope Leo's reflection on truth. "We have to come to truth slowly," Scherz explained, through dialogue, reflection, and engagement with one another. In a culture of constant acceleration, the encyclical reminds us that authentic understanding and wisdom cannot be rushed. 

This theme of relationships also emerged strongly in the remarks of Dr. Nicole Flores. Reflecting on reading the encyclical alongside her young son, she emphasized that the document speaks in a poignant way to younger generations growing up amidst unprecedented technological change. Flores pointed to Pope Leo's challenge to ask, "What are we building?", a question that resonates deeply with communities committed to nurturing both people and creation. 

The environmental dimensions of the encyclical are equally significant. Echoing the core concerns of Laudato Si’, Pope Leo highlights the massive energy and water demands of AI systems, as well as the profound impact these technologies have on vulnerable communities and ecosystems. To address this, Flores encouraged readers to pair Pope Leo's question, "What are we building?" with philosopher Hannah Arendt's challenge to "think what we are doing." 

For Scott Hurd, the encyclical offers both hope and practical guidance. He emphasized Pope Leo's invitation to adopt technology thoughtfully rather than uncritically. Citing the document, Hurd noted that "a slower pace in adopting AI does not mean opposing progress. Instead, it is an exercise of responsible care for the human family." He also reminded participants of a fundamental truth: "Human beings are not machines. We are persons, not products." 

At the FCJ Centre, we are dedicated to spiritual growth, dialogue, and community, finding in Magnifica Humanitas a timely invitation to create spaces where reflection, relationship, and discernment can flourish. In a world increasingly shaped by technology, Pope Leo reminds us that our deepest questions remain profoundly human. 

As communities of faith continue to engage with this important encyclical, the question that calls for ongoing reflection remains: What are we building, and how can we ensure that it serves both humanity and our common home? 

The webinar concluded with a challenge that speaks directly to our mission: to help build what Pope Leo calls a "civilization of love", a society grounded in truth, justice, solidarity, care for creation, and the inherent dignity of every person. 

We invite you to continue this reflection in your own way, whether through a technology-free private retreat, a summer weekend Ignatian retreat, or one of our many seasonal programs. These opportunities offer the sacred space needed to slow down, rest, renew, and listen more deeply amid the pace of daily life.