Sean Major Campbell | Magnifica Humanitas and Hope for Humanity

 “Humanity, created by God in all its grandeur, is today facing a pivotal choice: either to construct a new Tower of Babel or to build the city in which God and humanity dwell together. Each generation inherits the task of shaping its own era, guiding history to become a place where the dignity of every person is safeguarded, justice is promoted, and fraternity is made possible. Yet, every era also runs the risk of creating an inhumane and more unjust world.”

These are the opening words of Pope Leo XIV’s first encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas. The Latin expression translates to “magnificent humanity”. The overarching theme of the pontiff’s encyclical is safeguarding the human person in the age of artificial intelligence — a subject that should engage many, given the growing global conversation around AI.

The Pope’s call to political leaders, technologists, and other stakeholders is both timely and necessary, urging ethical reflection on the use of AI in order to affirm human dignity and the common good. It also reminds us to work respectfully within the limits and weaknesses that are part of being human.

Drawing on biblical accounts such as the Tower of Babel and Nehemiah’s rebuilding of Jerusalem, the Pope highlights the enduring choice between constructing a “Tower of Babel” or building a “city of God”. The latter must necessarily affirm human equality and justice. The encyclical also addresses the disarmament of AI, urging that the logic of war and domination be resisted so that our shared humanity is protected.

One of my major takeaways, as a citizen of a post-slavery society, is the call for apology and reparatory justice regarding slavery.

In 1452, Pope Nicholas V issued the infamous papal bull Dum Diversas to King Alphonso V, granting authority for enslavement. It sanctioned the subjugation of “pagans and enemies of Christ”. Likewise, the Church of England — antecedent of the Anglican Church — supported the colonial enterprise that perpetuated slavery. As an Anglican priest, I must acknowledge this painful history. Not because religion itself is inherently wicked, but because human nature, if untamed, can misuse even the most sacred tools for evil ends.

Even today, the language of religious faith must be approached with caution. It can sometimes provide moral cover for cruelty when linked to extremist ideologies, nationalist agendas, or distorted interpretations of pro-life rhetoric.

A functional understanding of history, combined with a commitment to universal human rights, is essential in responding to the lasting evils of slavery. As a descendant of enslaved Africans and indentured Indians, I refuse to remain silent in the face of systems that disguise injustice as divine will.

History reminds us that many remained silent when Dum Diversas was issued — a document that used the language of faith to justify domination and violence. Christians must learn from this legacy and recognise how easily religious rhetoric can obscure injustice.

The task before all institutions — including the Church — is to become advocates of reparatory justice. Apologies are necessary and welcome, but true healing requires action beyond words.

Given the systemic nature of racism and the enduring legacy of white supremacy, it is clear that no institution is untouched. Education, health, and security systems have all, at various points, reflected structural injustice shaped by colonial history. Our task now is to dismantle these systems and participate in the work of liberation and the rediscovery of our “magnificent humanity”.

If ever there were a moment for affirming diversity, equity, and inclusion, it is now — reflected in both the message and spirit of Magnifica Humanitas. There is no magnificent humanity without the full, kaleidoscopic expression of all people. May our prayers and actions align with the humble Christ who brings peace and love to all.

Fr Sean Major-Campbell is an Anglican priest and advocate for human rights and dignity. Send feedback to columns@gleanerjm.com and seanmajorcampbell@gmail.com.