Archbishop Eamon Martin, leader of the Catholic Church in Ireland and born in Derry, called for preserving human faces and voices in the face of advancing artificial intelligence. He made the remarks following Pope Leo XIV's message for the World Day of Social Communications.

Martin stated that technology now imitates human faces, clones voices, simulates affection, and creates falsehoods that influence perceptions. He stressed that people must ensure communication recognises and protects human dignity.

A person stands before others and deserves honour, according to Martin. Users of new technology should consider if they listen to genuine voices, protect actual faces, speak truth, and allow tools to foster connection rather than replace personal encounters.

He referenced the doctrinal note 'Antiqua et Nova' from the Dicastery for Culture and Education. That document noted AI can aid dignity by explaining concepts or guiding to reliable resources but risks spreading manipulated content and false information that resembles truth.

On the 60th World Day of Social Communications, Martin declared a human is not mere content, data, or manipulable image or voice but a child of God deserving recognition. Christian communication must remain truthful, personal, merciful, and courageous.

Martin acknowledged AI supports communication, learning, creativity, and knowledge access provided it does not undermine dignity. The Church aims to protect faces of the poor, refugees, abused, lonely youth, isolated elderly, and suffering individuals.

He cited Saint Carlo Acutis, who employed technology to share faith and enable encounters. Technology aids best when revealing Christ clearly and deepening love, Martin said, but endangers when substituting for presence, friendship, and communion.