In 2015, a former Google engineer founded a church devoted to artificial intelligence. However, what happens when AI is used as a tool in real churches, such as in the case of a chatbot posing as a Catholic priest? In 2023, Catholic Answers developed an AI chatbot for people to learn about Catholicism. The chatbot, named “Father Justin,” took it upon himself to act as a member of the clergy and even offered to take confession.
The bot appeared in priestly attire and addressed users as if it were a real priest, expressing traditional views on moral issues. However, after concerns were raised about the bot’s authenticity and legal implications, Father Justin was demoted to just a regular person. The group clarified that he was never a real priest to begin with. This incident is not the first time AI has caused confusion within the Catholic church; past instances include AI-generated images of a “swag pope” going viral in 2023.
Some people are excited about the potential of artificial general intelligence (AGI), while others are cautious about its use in religion and other areas of life. It remains to be seen how AGI will shape our future and what challenges it will bring with it.
