Visitors to the oldest church in Lucerne, Switzerland, might be taken aback when they encounter an AI-powered hologram of Jesus Christ in the confessional at St Peters' Chapel. This experimental art installation, a collaboration between the chapel and the Immersive Realities Research Lab at HSLU university, aims to provoke thoughts on the potential and perils of artificial intelligence in pastoral care. The hologram, which greets users with “Peace be with you, brother” and invites them to discuss their concerns, is part of the installation titled ‘Deus in Machina’. This provocative title, chosen by theologian Marco Schmid, suggests divine omniscience and wisdom.
Schmid believes that those less connected to the church might be particularly intrigued by the AI Jesus. The program is designed to encourage critical thinking about the intersection of technology and religion, with the confessional setting chosen to foster intimate interactions. Notably, conversations with the multilingual AI do not constitute confessions. The AI was trained using sacred scripture and theological texts, potentially allowing it to offer interpretations or advice that may differ from Church teachings. Despite this, Schmid asserts that all previous tests have aligned with St Peter’s theological views.
The ethical implications of AI decision-making and advice are significant, and the church plans to discuss these issues on 27 November. However, the project has already sparked controversy online, with reactions ranging from ridicule to offense. While some see it as a bold exploration, others view it as a disrespectful deviation from religious teachings.
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