The AI Dilemma: Should We Embrace Technology in Religious Settings or Be Cautious?

In 2015, a former Google engineer founded a church devoted to AI, highlighting the mixed reactions to the use of technology within religious institutions. The Catholic Answers organization took this a step further in 2019 when they created an AI chatbot named “Father Justin” that impersonated a priest and offered to hear confessions.

However, public backlash soon ensued as some questioned the ethics of using AI to impersonate religious figures and perform sacred rites. As a result, Catholic Answers demoted the chatbot to a normal civilian status, raising even more questions about the use of AI in religious settings.

The incident sparked debate among those who believe that AI can bring innovative approaches to traditional practices and others who worry about its implications in religious contexts. While some see the potential for technology to enhance spiritual experiences, others fear that it may dilute or replace human interaction.

The controversy surrounding Father Justin is not unique as other instances of confusion have arisen within religious circles due to technology. For example, viral images of a fictional “swag pope” circulated in 2023 further highlighted these concerns.