Pope Leo: From the Legacy of “The Great” to the Modern Pontificate of Leo XIV

VATICAN CITY, 23 February 2026 — As the Vatican enters the solemn season of Lent, the name “Leo” resonates through the halls of the Apostolic Palace with both historical weight and contemporary urgency. While the Catholic Church reflects on the monumental legacy of Saint Leo the Great, the current Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, is actively shaping the 21st-century papacy through diplomatic efforts and warnings against the encroachment of artificial intelligence in spiritual life.

Pope Leo XIV: Leading the Church in 2026

The current pontiff, Leo XIV, has had a busy start to the year. As of Monday, 23 February 2026, the Pope has officially entered a period of spiritual retreat, marking the beginning of the Lenten season for the Roman Curia.

Lenten Exercises and Spiritual Guidance

On Sunday evening, Pope Leo XIV and senior Vatican officials began their annual Lenten spiritual exercises. This year, the meditations are being led by Bishop Erik Varden. The retreat, a tradition established in 1929, is taking place within the Vatican, allowing the Curia to focus on “returning to the essentials” amidst global turmoil.

Earlier last week, the Pope opened the 2026 Lenten season with a poignant message, urging the faithful to practice a “fast from hurtful words.” He emphasised that true penance involves charity in communication, a theme he expanded upon during a recent meeting with priests from the Diocese of Rome.

The Human Touch vs. Artificial Intelligence

In a notable address three days ago, Pope Leo XIV issued a specific appeal to the clergy regarding modern technology. He explicitly instructed priests not to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to write their sermons. “Writing a real homily means sharing faith with others,” the Pope stated, arguing that the spiritual connection between a pastor and his flock cannot be replicated by an algorithm.

Diplomacy and Global Conflict

The Pope continues to navigate complex international waters. Within the last 12 hours, reports confirmed that Leo XIV met with Major Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk to discuss the ongoing war in Ukraine, which has now reached its four-year mark. The Pope described the conflict as a “shame for humanity.” Additionally, the Vatican is currently vetting a potential one-day apostolic journey to Monaco in late March, which would mark the first papal visit to the Principality in modern history.

The Historical Foundation: Leo I “The Great”

The choice of the name Leo carries immense historical significance, primarily due to Pope Leo I, known as Leo the Great (reigned 440–461). He remains one of only two popes in history to be granted the title “The Great.”

Defender of Doctrine and Rome

Born in Tuscany around the year 400, Leo I was elected Pope on 19 August 440. His 21-year pontificate was defined by his defense of the Primacy of Rome and his theological clarity. At the Council of Chalcedon in 451, his “Tome to Flavian” was instrumental in defining the dual nature of Christ—fully divine and fully human—combating the Monophysite heresy.

The Meeting with Attila

Leo I is perhaps most famous for his 452 meeting with Attila the Hun. According to tradition, Leo persuaded the “Scourge of God” to withdraw from Italy, sparing Rome from destruction. This act solidified the Pope’s role not just as a spiritual leader, but as a protector of the people during the collapse of the Western Roman Empire.

Leo X and the Renaissance Papacy

Another significant figure in the lineage is Pope Leo X (Giovanni de’ Medici), whose life and pontificate were famously chronicled by William Roscoe. Reining in the early 16th century, his papacy was marked by the height of the Renaissance in Rome, though it was also the period that saw the beginning of the Protestant Reformation.

Comparison of Key Pontificates

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who is the current Pope Leo?

The current Pope is Leo XIV. As of February 2026, he is actively leading the Catholic Church, recently publishing his first Apostolic Exhortation titled “Dilexi te.”

Why is Leo I called “The Great”?

Leo I earned the title due to his significant theological contributions at the Council of Chalcedon and his political leadership in protecting Rome from barbarian invasions during the 5th century.

What is Pope Leo XIV’s stance on AI?

Pope Leo XIV has expressed concern that AI could depersonalise the faith. He has specifically requested that priests refrain from using AI to generate sermons, insisting that homilies must be a personal sharing of faith.

Is the Pope visiting Monaco?

The Vatican is currently evaluating a trip to Monaco for late March 2026. If it proceeds, it will be a historic first for the Principality.