Interview with Cardinal Blase Cupich on 'Face the Nation,' May 11, 2025
Interviewer: Cardinal Cupich, we appreciate you being here today. With the election of Pope Leo as the new Supreme Pontiff, how has the College of Cardinals, including yourself, reacted to his emphasis on following the humble, service-oriented path left by Pope Francis?
Cardinal Cupich: His approach underscores our mission to prioritize serving the faithful entrusted to us, moving beyond self-focus. This philosophy resonates deeply with my pastoral duties over decades as I’ve endeavored to address people's daily needs.
Interviewer: Artificial intelligence was identified by Pope Leo as a significant concern for humanity. Can you elaborate on his concerns?
Cardinal Cupich: Much like Leo XIII confronted the Industrial Revolution, Pope Leo views artificial intelligence as a transformative era needing careful consideration. His remarks hinted at significant dialogues yet to come regarding how the Church must align with this technological shift.
Interviewer: Beyond reflection, what role does the Church envision in the realm of artificial intelligence?
Cardinal Cupich: While regulation might be a legislative task, we are poised to address the moral and human dimensions that AI introduces. Our focus should remain on nurturing our humanity and ensuring technological advancements uplift rather than undermine our human essence.
Interviewer: In his initial words from the Vatican, Pope Leo invoked the phrase 'peace be with you.' How does this reflect his vision for addressing global discord?
Cardinal Cupich: By invoking Christ’s peace, Pope Leo inspires us towards inner peace as a cornerstone for resolving global conflicts. Much like our successful consensus among diverse Cardinals, pursuing peaceful resolutions could be a global aim.
Interviewer: Pope Leo has been vocal on issues such as migration and environmental challenges. Will he continue this trajectory of speaking on international matters?
Cardinal Cupich: Certainly, his duty compels him to address these pressing global issues. By highlighting the human implications of phenomena such as climate change, he emphasizes our shared responsibility for the world’s future.
Interviewer: Immigration remains a contentious issue, particularly in the United States. Will the Church’s strategy shift under Pope Leo's guidance?
Cardinal Cupich: Upholding national borders is crucial, yet we have long championed a comprehensive immigration reform. Such steps could solve systemic issues, addressing both humanitarian concerns and security.
Interviewer: On Mother's Day, what message does the Church extend to women?
Cardinal Cupich: We celebrate mothers today, drawing on my personal family experiences of strength and guidance. The Church continues to value women’s contributions and voices, advocating for their leadership as essential within our community.
Interviewer: Despite Pope Leo's stance against women becoming deacons or priests, how does he intend to integrate women into Church leadership?
Cardinal Cupich: Changes initiated by Pope Francis, like appointing women to significant roles, illustrate that leadership need not equate with ordination. Women’s insights and authority are pivotal to the Church’s future under Pope Leo’s continued inclusivity.
Interviewer: How does Pope Leo’s perspective on same-sex unions reflect the Church's evolving stance?
Cardinal Cupich: While Church teachings offer blessings to individuals in various life situations, cultural sensitivities shape implementation. Blessings are sought for divine support, emphasizing personal spiritual journeys without undermining existing doctrines.
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