AI in Religion: Virtual Jesus and Digital Devotion Spark Debate

Reviewed byNidhi Govil

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Artificial intelligence is making inroads into religious practices, offering virtual spiritual guidance and automated sermons. This technological integration is causing a divide among the faithful, with some embracing the new tools while others express concerns about the lack of human connection.

The Rise of AI in Religious Practices

Artificial intelligence, a technology revolutionizing various aspects of society, is now making its way into the realm of religion. This integration is offering believers new ways to engage with their faith through virtual Jesus interactions and automated sermons, sparking a debate among the faithful about the role of technology in spiritual practices

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Source: Economic Times

Source: Economic Times

AI-Powered Religious Apps

One of the most prominent examples of this trend is the 'Text with Jesus' app, which has garnered thousands of paying subscribers. Developed by Catloaf Software, the app allows users to ask questions to virtual representations of religious figures such as Mary, Joseph, Jesus, and nearly all 12 apostles

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Source: Tech Xplore

Source: Tech Xplore

Stephane Peter, CEO of Catloaf Software, emphasizes that the app's primary purpose is educational, offering an interactive approach to addressing religious issues. The app, based on ChatGPT's GPT-5 version, has received a favorable rating of 4.7 out of 5 in the App Store, despite some considering it blasphemous

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Diverse Religious AI Applications

The trend of AI in religion is not limited to Christianity. Other major religions have similar apps, such as Deen Buddy for Islam, Vedas AI for Hinduism, and AI Buddha. These apps generally position themselves as interfaces with scripture rather than incarnations of actual holiness

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Mixed Reactions from the Faithful

The integration of AI into religious practices has elicited mixed reactions from believers. Some, like Nica, a 28-year-old Anglican, use AI tools like ChatGPT almost daily to study scripture, viewing it as an additional layer to their faith practice. However, others express concerns about the lack of human connection and emotional depth in AI-powered religious interactions

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Clergy Experiments with AI

As society explores the potential of AI, some clergy members are also experimenting with the technology. In November 2023, Pastor Jay Cooper of the Violet Crown City Church in Austin, Texas, had an AI assistant deliver an entire sermon. While this experiment attracted new attendees, particularly video game enthusiasts, Cooper noted that it lacked the "heart and spirit" of traditional sermons

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Concerns and Limitations

Rabbi Gilah Langner highlights a significant concern: the potential for AI to isolate people from the living tradition of their faith. She emphasizes the importance of human interaction in interpreting religious texts and connecting to faith traditions. This sentiment is echoed by others who believe that AI lacks the nuance and emotional connection necessary for genuine spiritual guidance

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As AI continues to evolve and integrate into various aspects of religious practice, the debate over its role in faith communities is likely to intensify. While some see it as a valuable educational tool, others caution against replacing human-to-human spiritual connections with AI-powered alternatives.

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