Pope Francis continues to address pressing global issues, from migration and human dignity to the ethical use of artificial intelligence. Here’s a look at the Vatican’s latest updates and the Pope’s key messages.

Pope Francis on U.S. Migration Policies: Defending Human Dignity

Pope Francis reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to upholding the dignity of migrants and refugees, urging Catholics not to be swayed by discriminatory narratives. In an open letter to U.S. bishops, he praised their work in supporting migrants and emphasized the importance of pastoral care for those facing displacement. His message comes amid increasing deportations and growing concerns over migration policies.

Mother Teresa’s Feast Day Officially Added to the Roman Calendar

The Vatican has included St. Teresa of Calcutta in the General Roman Calendar, setting her feast day for September 5, the anniversary of her passing in 1997. Cardinal Arthur Roche, head of the Dicastery for Divine Worship, described Mother Teresa as “a beacon of hope, small in stature but great in love.” The new decree ensures that the Church worldwide will honor her legacy with special prayers and liturgies.

Pope Francis Advocates for Indigenous Rights

Speaking to participants at the Seventh Global Meeting of the Indigenous Peoples’ Forum, Pope Francis emphasized that land, water, and food are more than commodities—they are essential to life and the spiritual connection between Indigenous communities and nature. He stressed that defending Indigenous rights is not only a matter of justice but also crucial for ensuring a sustainable future for all.

The Pope’s Call for Ethical AI at the Paris Summit

At the Artificial Intelligence Action Summit in Paris, hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron, Pope Francis sent a powerful message urging global leaders to safeguard human control over AI. He warned that reliance on data and algorithms could distort truth and creativity. "Love is worth more than intelligence," he reminded the world, underscoring that only the human heart can give true meaning to life.

Archbishop Gallagher: ‘We Need the Courage of Peace’

During the Jubilee of the Armed Forces, Archbishop Paul Gallagher, the Vatican’s Secretary for Relations with States, called for a renewed commitment to peace. Speaking at a conference titled Being a Military to Achieve Peace, he emphasized that peace requires justice, charity, and the rejection of violence. He urged military and security forces to focus on proactive peacebuilding rather than conflict resolution after violence has erupted.

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