Pope calls worshippers ‘saints of France’ after AI warning

On the opening day of his apostolic journey to France, Pope Leo XIV greeted thousands of worshippers outside Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, referring to them as the "saints of France." He implored peace and cautioned against an AI-driven utopia. The Church of France calls upon these young individuals, aged 17 to 35, expressing gratitude for their courage, presence, and faith.

The pontiff addressed around five percent of France's 69 million population who regularly attend church services. Despite a decline in baptisms, more teenagers and adults are converting. The pope's visit, the first in 18 years, drew an estimated 300,000 people, including Terry Spytek from the United States, who felt touched by his fleeting glance.

Over a million attendees are anticipated during the two-day event. The main highlight will be a Mass at Place de la Concorde and Champs-Elysees, followed by a visit to Lourdes and Metz, where he will discuss peace in Europe. Pope Leo XIV also addressed the dangers of AI, urging humanity to preserve its essence amidst technological advancements.

He emphasized the importance of ethical discernment in education and urged France to maintain its secular nature while acknowledging the role of religion in society.