A church in Lucerne, Switzerland, has introduced a revolutionary AI-based hologram called "Deus in Machina" to engage worshippers in confessions.
This holographic Jesus, part of an experimental project, discusses theological issues and personal dilemmas, sparking wide-ranging discussions about the intersection of religion and technology, New York Post reported.
Located at St. Peter's Church in Lucerne, the AI hologram of Jesus interacted with visitors through a screen in a traditional confessional. The "Deus in Machina" project, which began accepting confessions on August 23 and ended on October 20, captivated both local and global communities with its fusion of ancient tradition and modern technology.
Developed by computer scientists and theologians from Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, the AI could converse in nearly 100 languages. Furthermore, its responses were based on data from the New Testament and other religious texts, ensuring alignment with scripture and doctrinal interpretations.
The setup allows worshippers to remain anonymous, using generalized advice and Bible verses to help them reflect on their lives. This approach has been praised for its innovative take on traditional religious counsel.
However, some theologians and ethicists express concerns. Critics argue that the AI cannot replicate the nuanced guidance clergy provide for personal and ethical dilemmas. Additionally, some see the AI Jesus as a "gimmick," believing it diminishes the deeply personal nature of confession and religious advice.
Feedback from users has been mixed, with many expressing positive reactions to their experiences. One user shared with DW News, "I was surprised, it was so easy, and though it’s a machine, it gave me so much advice." This type of feedback shows that for some, the AI can serve a meaningful role, even within such a delicate context.
The setup allows worshippers to remain anonymous, using generalized advice and Bible verses to help them reflect on their lives. As a result, this approach has been praised for its innovative take on traditional religious counsel.
However, some theologians and ethicists express concerns. Critics argue that the AI cannot replicate the nuanced guidance clergy provide for personal and ethical dilemmas. Moreover, some see the AI Jesus as a "gimmick," believing it diminishes the deeply personal nature of confession and religious advice.
The church has emphasized that this use of AI technology is not a permanent fixture but a temporary installation meant to spark dialogue about AI’s potential role in religious settings. In fact, the project’s temporary nature, set to run through the end of November, is part of an ongoing experiment aimed at provoking thought and debate.
Marco Schmid, a theologian involved in the project, clarified the aim, stating, "What we’re doing here is an experiment, we wanted to launch the discussion by letting people have a very concrete experience with AI."
Consequently, this approach has provided a practical foundation for discussing the implications of integrating AI technologies into religious practices.
Professor Peter Kirchschläger, another expert contributing to the initiative, emphasized the superiority of human connection in religious counsel. However, he acknowledged the usefulness of this exploratory project in understanding AI’s limitations and potential within the realm of faith.
The setup allows worshippers to remain anonymous, using generalized advice and Bible verses to help them reflect on their lives. This approach has been praised for its innovative take on traditional religious counsel.
However, some theologians and ethicists express concerns. Critics argue that the AI cannot replicate the nuanced guidance clergy provide for personal and ethical dilemmas. Additionally, some see the AI Jesus as a "gimmick," believing it diminishes the deeply personal nature of confession and religious advice.
