The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Catholic Online Teaching
By SIDTP SoCom
Published on November 26, 2024
As the Church continues to embrace digital platforms to share the Gospel, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a significant tool. While it holds promise, it also brings challenges that require discernment and care.
AI-powered tools like apps and chatbots make Catholic resources accessible to a global audience. For example, someone in a remote village can access the Catechism, liturgical guides, or daily reflections with just a smartphone. Language translation tools driven by AI ensure that teachings are understandable in diverse cultures. AI can also customize learning paths based on individual needs. A catechumen might receive tailored materials to understand the sacraments, while a theology student could explore deeper resources. This personalized approach encourages growth at one’s own pace.
Catechists and educators can save time with AI tools that generate quizzes, manage schedules, or summarize Church documents. This allows them to focus on personal interactions and spiritual guidance. Additionally, AI-powered features like virtual reality tours of biblical sites, interactive timelines, or gamified learning can make faith formation more immersive and engaging, particularly for younger audiences.
However, AI systems rely on the information provided to them. If they draw from incomplete or incorrect data, they might misrepresent Church teachings. This could confuse learners or lead them away from the truth. AI also cannot replace the personal presence of catechists, priests, or pastoral leaders. Faith formation is relational—it requires human interaction to foster community, spiritual growth, and trust in the Church.
AI involves collecting and processing large amounts of data. Without proper safeguards, sensitive information could be misused, compromising the dignity and trust of participants in online faith formation. Additionally, dependence on AI might reduce personal efforts in learning, prayer, and community engagement. The risk lies in replacing the rich, sacramental life of the Church with purely digital interactions.
To use AI responsibly in Catholic teaching, it is essential to anchor its application in authentic Church teaching. Tools should be developed in consultation with theologians, clergy, and educators to ensure accuracy and fidelity to Catholic doctrine. While AI can assist in catechesis, it should not replace human catechists, whose role in faith formation is irreplaceable. Ethical concerns such as data privacy and the protection of human dignity must also be prioritized. Learners should be encouraged to critically evaluate AI-generated content and always cross-check it with Scripture and Church Tradition.
The Church has always embraced innovation in its mission to evangelize, from the printing press to radio and television. AI is another opportunity to fulfill Christ’s mandate to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). By approaching this technology with prudence and a Christ-centered perspective, we can use it to spread the Gospel while staying faithful to the mission of the Church.
