The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops announced the creation of a new task force on September 16, 2026, dedicated to safeguarding human dignity in the face of rapid artificial intelligence development. The initiative follows a recent meeting between the bishops’ administrative committee and representatives from technology firms and AI specialists.

Bishop Oscar Cantù of San Jose, California, will chair the new body. The task force is designed to ensure that emerging technologies remain subservient to human needs rather than dictating them. Chieko Noguchi noted that discussions were “focused on ways to keep any system of Artificial Intelligence at the service of humanity.”

Congressional Advocacy

More than a dozen bishops traveled to Capitol Hill to urge lawmakers to implement safety guardrails for AI systems. During these engagements, the prelates pressed Congress to adopt strong safety standards and legislation specifically aimed at protecting children online. The bishops also acknowledged widespread concerns that artificial intelligence could lead to higher unemployment rates and a reduction in family-supporting jobs.

Papal Guidance

The initiative aligns with recent teachings from Pope Leo XIV. In May, the pontiff published the encyclical Magnifica Humanitas, warning that AI tends to amplify the power of those who possess economic resources, technical expertise, and access to data. In August, he called for robust safeguards governing AI and other digital technologies.

Archbishop Gabriele Giordano Caccia, the apostolic nuncio to the United States, emphasized the necessity of a moral framework for these advancements. “Not everything which is possible to be done should be done,” Archbishop Caccia said. “Not everything that technology offers should be taken.”