New Research from the American Beliefs Study Offers Insight into Catholic Views on AI in Light of Pope Leo XIV’s Guidance
Survey conducted prior to the release of Magnifica Humanitas indicates Catholics embrace AI as a ministry tool, not a substitute for human connection
As Catholics around the world reflect on Pope Leo XIV’s first encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas, new survey data suggests many Catholics already share the Holy Father’s conviction that artificial intelligence should serve humanity rather than replace it.
Research conducted in March 2026 by ACS Technologies, a 45-year leader in church management software, market expertise, and data analysis, surveyed 1,500 Americans on topics such as honesty, friendship, faith, and artificial intelligence. Catholics represented 21 percent of respondents across multiple generations. Though the survey was completed before the publication of Magnifica Humanitas, its findings closely mirror several themes emphasized in the landmark document.
“While many are describing Magnifica Humanitas as the Pope’s encyclical on AI, its message is about human dignity, responsibility, and the common good,” said Terry Poplava, General Manager of ACST Catholic. “Our research suggests that Catholics are open to using AI when it helps people serve one another more effectively while preserving personal relationships that remain at the heart of parish life.”
One notable finding revealed the degree of trust Americans place in technology. When asked who they believed was most likely to lie, respondents consistently ranked AI as less likely to lie than other sources, including social media influencers, politicians, lawyers, and news anchors. Respondents identified politicians and government officials as 30% more likely to lie than AI. The finding echoes broader concerns about society’s reliance on technology for information and decision-making.
At the same time, Catholics expressed strong support for practical uses of AI within parish life. Respondents were most receptive to applications that assist parish staff with communication, administrative tasks, and information analysis. Support declined when AI appeared to replace the human relationships essential to ministry.
The findings suggest several ways parishes can use AI responsibly while keeping people at the center:
- Assist with language translation, newsletters, reports, and routine communications
- Analyze parish data to better understand engagement and discipleship trends
- Free clergy, staff, and volunteers from administrative burdens so they can devote more time to pastoral care and personal accompaniment
- Enhance ministry effectiveness while preserving human judgment and accountability
“Parish leaders have an important opportunity to provide guidance, model responsible use, and ensure that technology remains a tool in service of people, faith, and community– not the other way around,” concluded Poplava. “The overarching goal is to create more time for the work that only people can do– listening, teaching, accompanying, encouraging, and serving others.”
The survey was part of the groundbreaking research series American Beliefs Study: Religious Preferences and Practices, an ongoing research initiative examining Americans’ religious affiliations, beliefs, values, and practices. Full analysis can be accessed here for more information.
