Covalence for Summer 2026
Covalence Summer Edition: The ever-expanding intersection of faith, science, and AI
From legal experts to interfaith researchers, more parts of our daily conversations are incorporating concerns about faith, science, and AI. Notably, researchers at the University of Minnesota created the world’s first synthetic cell with a complete life cycle. Built…
Pope Leo’s AI warning: AI needs to serve human dignity, not transhumanist dreams
Ever since his ascension to the Pontificate, Pope Leo has indelibly left a mark on the Chair of Saint Peter, following closely in the footsteps of his predecessor, Francis. One of the highly anticipated statements of Pope Leo was his first encyclical as the Pope….
Us, God or something new?
The last few weeks in the worlds of artificial intelligence and biology have been an undeniable whirlwind of headlines. With many concerned about the seemingly unchecked power of artificial intelligence and the rise of data centers, a new finding in synthetic biology…
Researchers, faith leaders consider new tools to measure how AI represents religion
The G20 Interfaith Forum has been holding webinars this summer as part of a series on AI and Human Flourishing. Seeking to collaborate with religious and political leaders worldwide, the G20 Interfaith Forum says such work is increasingly important as AI becomes a…
Catholic theologians gather to discuss quantum science, philosophy
Chapman University in Orange, Calif., hosted a first‑of‑its‑kind gathering exploring the intersection of quantum science, philosophy, and Catholic theology from July 12–15. The inaugural meeting was organized by Prof. Vincenzo Tamma of the University of Portsmouth and…
Legal experts weigh in on religion-based objections to AI in the workplace
A new papal encyclical on artificial intelligence is prompting fresh workplace tensions as employees raise religious objections to use of AI tools, according to a recent legal alert from U.S. law firm Stinson. Pope Leo XIV’s Magnifica Humanitas, released last month,…
