Nearly 300 visitors to the experiment completed surveys, with many describing the experience as thought-provoking or emotionally impactful.

Most visitors were aged 40 to 70, with Catholics reporting more positive reactions than Protestants.

"What was really interesting (was) to see that the people really talked with him in a serious way. They didn't come to make jokes" said chapel theologian Marco Schmid, who spearheaded the project.

Schmid emphasised that the avatar was an artistic experiment, not a substitute for human confession or priestly interaction.

He was quick to point out that the "AI Jesus" — billed as a "Jesus-like" persona — was an artistic experiment to get people thinking about the intersection between the digital and the divine, not substitute for human interaction or sacramental confessions with a priest, nor was it intended to save pastoral resources.

The AI Jesus, modelled on GPT-4o, responded in multiple languages including German, English, French and Chinese. Visitors addressed issues ranging from solitude and suffering to questions about the Church's stance on sexual abuse and homosexuality.

The exhibit hosted at Peter's Chapel in Lucerne drew participants from diverse religious backgrounds including Christians, agnostics, Muslims and Buddhists.

Philipp Haslbauer, an IT specialist behind the project, explained "No specific safeguards were used, as GPT-4o generally handled controversial topics well".

Online criticism

While many visitors praised the initiative, some criticism emerged online. There have been accusations of blasphemy and concerns about AI's role in spirituality. Schmid, however, found value in the discussions the project sparked. He described it as a pilot initiative that helped engage people with questions about faith and technology.

Kenneth Cukier, an expert with the US-based nonprofit group AI and Faith, said that if "AI Jesus" helps people connect deeper to themselves and the world, it "has to be a good thing".

However "the risk is that it pulls people, ultimately, farther away from that which is more meaningful, deeper and authentic in spirituality" advised Cukier.

Pope Francis has urged the ethical use of AI and called for international regulations to address its societal impact. The Vatican has also explored AI's potential, appointing a Franciscan friar to study its implications.

Other parishes and researchers have expressed interest in the potential return of 'AI Jesus'. Schmid said the project's continuation requires reflection.

Sources

AP News

Reason

CathNews New Zealand

The project, titled Deus in Machina, aims to explore the role of technology in religious practices and will conclude with a discussion and presentation on 27 November.

St Peter's Chapel, the oldest Catholic church in Lucerne, launched the initiative in August before its centenary celebrations.

The AI hologram which speaks 100 languages and has been trained in the New Testament, engages visitors with phrases such as "Peace be with you" and invites them to share their thoughts and concerns.

While its placement in a confessional has raised questions, the parish has clarified that the hologram does not administer the sacrament of confession but offers a space for reflection and discussion.

"What we're doing here is an experiment" said Marco Schmidt, a theologian at the parish. "We wanted to launch the discussion by letting people have a very concrete experience with AI."

Others in the installation team suggested they want users to "think critically about the boundaries of technology in the context of religion".

Mixed reaction

The project has prompted mixed reactions. Supporters highlight its accessibility, particularly outside traditional pastoral hours, with some users reporting spiritual experiences.

Critics however argue that an AI hologram of Jesus cannot replace human pastoral care. Peter Kirchschläger, a professor of theological ethics, cautioned "We should be careful when it comes to faith, pastoral care and the search for meaning in religion".

Human staff are present at the installation to offer additional guidance and discuss the AI's responses.

Schmidt noted that the hologram's answers align with theological views but admitted that its replies can sometimes feel generic.

"I'm glad it still comes across as a technical object" Schmidt said. "At the same time, its responses provide a fascinating basis for discussion."

Sources

The Pillar

Greek Reporter

CathNews New Zealand