Pope Francis has raised concerns regarding the use of artificial intelligence in sermon preparation during a meeting with priests from the Archdiocese of Rome. He emphasized that true preaching requires a personal sharing of faith that cannot be replicated by machines. The Pope warned against the temptation to rely on algorithms in pastoral work, which fundamentally relies on personal spiritual experience and the connection between a priest and their community. He argued that AI cannot genuinely participate in the sharing of faith, as sermons are not merely well-crafted texts but are rooted in lived spiritual experience.

Further, the Pope compared the human brain to a muscle that weakens without exercise, highlighting that over-dependence on digital tools may diminish a priest's capacity for personal contemplation and diligence, as required by Christian teachings. He pointed out the need for priests to engage deeply with their faith and communities rather than seek validation through digital means. This underscores the belief that the priest's role is grounded in prayer and meditation rather than the rapid interactions often found on social media platforms.

While expressing these concerns, the Pope's statements reflect a broader discourse on the implications of technology in religious practice and could indicate a cautious approach towards integrating modern tools in spirituality. The commentary suggests a call for balance, encouraging priests to maintain their personal spiritual practices amidst the growing influence of digital technology in society.