Dear Parishioners and Friends,
Greetings from Malta. As we read Magnifica Humanitas, we realise that the encyclical is based on Sacred Scripture. Pope Leo frames the development and use of AI through two biblical images: the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1–9) and the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem under Nehemiah (Nehemiah 2–6). Babel represents self-assertion, uniformity, and control, while Nehemiah represents prayerful, communal rebuilding ordered toward communion. This vision culminates in the New Jerusalem, “coming down out of heaven from God” (Revelation 21:2), as a “gift for all humanity” This “vision of grace is an invitation for us Christians to work together in order to foster a peaceful, just and dignified life in community within today’s “cities.” (MH 10).
The encyclical also grounds human dignity in Genesis, teaching that men and women are created “in the image and likeness” of God (Genesis 1:26–27). It points to Christ, the Word made flesh, as the one in whom the mystery of humanity becomes clear (MH 1).
Pope Leo refers to the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14–30), teaching that “scientific discoveries are talents entrusted to humanity that they may bear fruit” (MH 9). Moreover, while no one can single-handedly bear the weight of the challenges the world is facing, no one is so weak that they cannot play their part. He cites St. Paul’s words that “power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9) (MH 13).
Building a world in which everyone can flourish requires shared responsibility and courage. All are given their own section of the wall (Nehemiah (2-6): scientists and researchers, entrepreneurs and workers, educators and legislators, civil society, popular movements and faith communities. The logic of subsidiarity values the cooperation between generations, peoples, disciplines and cultures as the best way for fostering stability, prosperity and peace.
Later, the encyclical invokes Isaiah’s promise of renewal: “Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?” (Isaiah 43:19). This passage supports the encyclical’s call to hope. Even amid confusion and conflict, God is still bringing forth new possibilities for goodness, peace, and communion (MH 210).
God bless you.
Fr Silvio