Context:

Pope Leo XIV, in his inaugural address to the Roman Catholic cardinals, emphasized his commitment to continuing Pope Francis' legacy by steering the church towards modernization and greater inclusivity. He highlighted the importance of the 2013 document 'Evangelii Gaudium' by Francis, focusing on themes such as collegiality, popular piety, and the care for the marginalized. Leo XIV drew parallels between the challenges posed by the first industrial revolution addressed by Pope Leo XIII and those arising from contemporary advances in artificial intelligence. He stressed the church's responsibility in defending human dignity and justice in this new context. The pope's address was followed by speeches from cardinals, who discussed synodality and the Vatican's relationship with China, reinforcing the continuity of Francis’ initiatives in the church's future direction.

Dive Deeper:

• Pope Leo XIV has committed to continuing the modernization path set by Pope Francis, focusing on inclusivity and a more missionary approach for the Catholic Church. He emphasized priorities like growing collegiality, popular piety, and engaging in dialogue with the modern world.

• The pope referenced 'Evangelii Gaudium', a significant document issued by Francis in 2013, which outlines these priorities. He highlighted its focus on loving care for the marginalized and promoting courageous dialogue with contemporary society as guiding principles for his papacy.

• Leo XIV explained his choice of papal name by drawing inspiration from Leo XIII, who addressed social issues during the first industrial revolution. He noted the parallels between historical challenges and the current ones posed by artificial intelligence, emphasizing the church's role in advocating for human dignity and justice.

• The pope praised Francis as a humble and dedicated leader, committed to simplicity and service. He intends to follow this example, ensuring the church remains close to those who are marginalized.

• After his address, cardinals discussed synodality, a legacy of Francis that encourages dialogue between church leaders and laypeople. They also touched upon the Vatican's relationship with China, a strategic initiative from Francis’ papacy aimed at strengthening the church's presence in the region.

• Following the meeting, Pope Leo XIV made a surprise visit to Our Lady of Good Counsel in Genazzano, engaging with the local community and later visiting Pope Francis’ tomb at St. Mary Major, where he paid his respects by laying a white rose.

• Cardinal reactions to the pope's address indicated a positive reception towards maintaining the continuity of Francis' direction, with discussions focusing on the formation of priests and bishops as part of this ongoing mission.