Pope Leo XIV urges ethical use of technology in agriculture, emphasizing respect for human dignity and ecological balance.

Pope Leo XIV has emphasized the importance of using bread not as a weapon of war, highlighting the ethical responsibilities tied to food and agricultural innovation. In a message released on the occasion of World Food Day, the Pope, who is currently recovering at the Gemelli polyclinic, urged the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to move beyond abstract analyses and focus on practical solutions. His message, addressed to FAO Director General Qu Dongyu, underscores the need for a new world food order that prioritizes human dignity and the common good.

The Pope called for a reorientation of resources, urging that investments in the armaments industry be redirected toward sustainable agricultural research and soil development. He stressed that technological innovation must always be guided by respect for human dignity and the ecological balance of the Earth. This aligns with the Pope’s broader vision of human collaboration with God in the stewardship of creation, as seen in his teachings on the sacredness of life and the environment.

In his message, the Pope highlighted the importance of understanding the complex laws that govern the natural world, which are part of God’s creation. He emphasized that modern agricultural technology, while valuable, must not strip the land of its natural and ecological character. This perspective reflects a deep concern for the integrity of the Earth and the ethical implications of human activity.

The Pope also called for a renewed sense of inter-agency responsibility, urging that innovation be guided by wisdom and the knowledge passed down through generations of farmers. This wisdom, he noted, includes the conscious observation of land and climate, which informs sustainable practices. The Pope’s message serves as a reminder that technological progress must be balanced with a commitment to preserving the creativity and stewardship that God has entrusted to humanity.

As the Pope continues to advocate for ethical approaches to food and agriculture, his message resonates with the biblical call to care for the Earth and its resources. Micah 6:8 reminds us to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God, principles that underpin the Pope’s vision for a more equitable and sustainable world.

Source: Read the original report (translated from French)