St. Peter’s Chapel in Lucerne, Switzerland, is incorporating artificial intelligence into religious settings. Visitors can now interact with a digital avatar of Jesus through an innovative installation by Lucerne University’s scientists and theologians.
Launched in August, the installation features a high-tech confessional booth. Visitors ask questions about faith and the AI responds based on training from the New Testament and other religious texts.
Marco Schmid, a theologian at St. Peter’s Chapel, explained the project is an “experiment.” Its aim is to spark discussions on artificial intelligence’s role in modern faith practices. Schmid hopes it will provide a “concrete experience” to explore AI’s ethical and spiritual implications.
The installation uses a user-friendly interface, making it easy for visitors to engage with the AI Jesus. According to a press release, the installation offers spiritual support anytime.
Unlike human pastors, the AI isn’t bound by traditional schedules, making it available at all hours. The chapel sees it as a tool for individuals to explore faith on their own terms.
Some visitors find the experience moving. Worshippers told DW News they were surprised by how easy the process was and left feeling inspired.
However, others criticized the installation. Some said the AI’s advice seemed “generic.” Additionally, some raised concerns about using AI for spiritual guidance. A professor from Lucerne University warned people to be cautious when relying on AI to seek meaning in religion.
Despite mixed reactions, St. Peter’s Chapel supports the project. The chapel sees it as a way to spark important conversations on how faith can adapt to the digital age. The press release noted the project aims to “start meaningful conversations about faith in a digital world.”
The chapel points out several benefits of the installation. It offers different perspectives, independence from prejudice and personalized answers. The AI speaks in 100 languages, making it accessible to visitors worldwide.
In the end, the AI Jesus installation is about starting a dialogue. The chapel’s goal is clear: provoke thought, encourage conversations and explore how religion can evolve in a digital world.
