Pope Leo Urges US Youth: Technology Cannot Replace the Gift of Human Relationship
By Michelle La Rosa, November 21, 2025
In a heartfelt message to young people in the United States, Pope Leo emphasized the irreplaceable value of genuine human connection amid the growing influence of technology. Speaking at the 2025 National Catholic Youth Conference on November 21, the pontiff encouraged youth to cultivate authentic relationships—with both Christ and those around them—warning that technology, while valuable, poses risks when it displaces face-to-face interactions.
“There’s nothing that can replace true human presence, being with one another,” Pope Leo said during a live video discussion with conference participants. “While technology certainly can connect us, it’s not the same as being physically present. We need to use it wisely without letting it overshadow our relationships.”
The Role of Technology in Faith and Life
Acknowledging technology as an important tool in the modern world, the pope noted its benefits in helping people stay connected, pray, and share the Gospel message. However, he was clear that these benefits do not substitute for in-person engagement.
“Simple things—a hug, a handshake, a smile—are essential to being human,” he reflected. “To have those things in a real way, not through a screen, is vital.”
He highlighted the significance of physically participating in communal worship. “As Catholics, we often pray together, remembering Jesus promised that when two or more gather in his name, He is with them. The early Church experienced powerful moments of Jesus’ presence when they prayed together. Watching Mass online can be helpful, especially for those who are sick, elderly, or unable to attend in person. But actually being there, taking part in the Eucharist, is so important for our prayer and our sense of community.”
Encouragement to Follow St. Carlo Acutis’ Example
Pope Leo held up the recently canonized St. Carlo Acutis as a model for young people navigating the digital age. Carlo, who was gifted with computers, used his skills to promote faith while consciously limiting his screen time to prioritize prayer and service.
“My friends, I encourage you to follow the example of Carlo,” the pope urged. “Be intentional with your screen time. Make sure technology serves your life and not the other way around.”
Responding to Artificial Intelligence
The discussion also touched on the emerging role of artificial intelligence in society. A youth participant asked for advice on how Christians should approach AI. Pope Leo responded with a call for critical thinking and moral discernment.
“Using AI responsibly means using it in ways that help you grow, never in ways that distract you from your dignity or your call to holiness in your education,” he said. He cautioned that while AI can process data quickly, it lacks the capacity for true wisdom and moral judgment.
“It cannot offer real wisdom. AI will not judge between what is truly right and wrong. And it won’t stand in wonder—authentic wonder—before the beauty of God’s creation,” he explained. “So be prudent, be wise. Use AI in such a way that if it disappeared tomorrow, you would still know how to think, how to create, how to act on your own, how to form authentic friendships.”
He concluded this point by reminding youth, “AI can never replace the unique gift that you are to the world.”
Strengthening Relationship with Christ Through Prayer and Silence
Pope Leo also emphasized daily practices of prayer and silence to nurture an authentic relationship with Christ.
“Jesus does not just understand our struggles from a distance. He actually wants us to hand them to Him because He loves us,” the pope said. He likened the closeness of relationship with Jesus to that of one’s closest friends—people whom we trust enough to share our deepest burdens.
“Daily moments of silence, whether through adoration, reading scripture, talking to Him, or finding little moments throughout the day, help us hear His voice and feel His presence both within and through the people He sends to us,” he added.
The Importance of Authentic Friendships and Vocations
Pope Leo encouraged young people to seek out friendships that help them grow closer to Jesus, describing a good friend as someone who encourages holiness and truth, even when it is difficult.
Drawing upon the example of St. Augustine—who realized that his true desire for greatness was a longing for Christ—the pope reminded the youth that they are not only the Church’s future but its present.
“Now is the time to dream big. Be open to what God can do through your lives,” he said, encouraging them to pray about their vocations, frequent the sacraments, and persevere in prayer despite distractions.
Final Reflections
In a lighter moment during the discussion, Pope Leo shared that he continues to engage with modern puzzles like Wordle, even using different starting words daily—a small sign of his interest in balancing technology with real-world experiences.
Quoting predecessors Pope Francis and Pope Benedict, Pope Leo closed with an exhortation to avoid politicizing faith, explaining, “The Church doesn’t belong to any political party. Rather, she helps form your conscience.”
Through his reflections, Pope Leo called on young people to exercise discernment, embrace human connection, and steward technology wisely, reminding them of their unique and irreplaceable role in the world.
Photo caption: Pope Leo participates in a discussion with participants at the National Catholic Youth Conference, November 21, 2025. Credit: EWTN screenshot.
Comments
Leah Miller, high school catechist:
“It was so exciting to watch this livestream. I especially appreciated the pope’s insights on AI and wonder—it’s something my students struggle with.”
Fr. N. Romero:
“This was a powerful moment for our youth. I hope the pope’s encouragement of vocations will inspire a new wave in our community.”
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