Many churches are embracing AI to various degrees. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has adopted a “tool-not-substitute” approach. According to Gemini AI the Catholic Church’s approach to Artificial Intelligence is active, deeply philosophical, and centered on human dignity, ethical accountability, and moral responsibility. Under the leadership of Pope Francis, the Vatican has become one of the most prominent global voices advocating for ethical safeguards on emerging technologies. Rather than treating AI merely as an administrative tool, the Vatican views it as an epochal shift that redefines human culture, work, and identity. We will explore what Barclay sees as the implications not just for religious institutions of faith, but how AI might actually aid Christians in deepening their discipleship in their hearts and minds and on the ground with the most marginalized. 

Barclay is Assistant Dean of AI at the Smith School of Engineering & Technology, Utah Valley University. He is a Fellow at Cambridge Judge Business School and a member of the Board of Directors for the Utah Innovation Fund. Barclay is at the forefront of driving innovation and applying AI in academia and industry. His current work is focused on Generative AI: The Future of Work, Education, Healthcare, and Spirituality.