Churches are stepping into a new era of worship as artificial intelligence becomes a digital partner in the pulpit. From sermon preparation to prayer chatbots that simulate divine conversations, faith leaders are testing the waters of tech-driven spirituality.
According to a report by Axios, AI is being embraced by some religious communities as a way to stay afloat during a time of declining membership, financial strain, and rising demand for digital services. As congregations shrink and clergy are stretched thin, new apps offer personalized prayers, scripture guidance, and even virtual conversations with biblical figures.
Some apps, like “Text With Jesus,” promise users a chance to “embark on a spiritual journey and engage in enlightening conversations with Jesus Christ.” The app even allows interactions with other biblical characters, including Mary, Joseph, Judas Iscariot, and Satan. Meanwhile, Catholic platforms like One Day Confess and Confession – Catholic help guide users through reflection and confession using AI-driven prompts.
“What could go wrong?” sarcastically asked Robert P. Jones, CEO of the Public Religion Research Institute, pointing to the ethical questions that arise when AI mimics divine voices.
Beyond conversation, churches are deploying AI chatbots like EpiscoBot to manage event schedules, scripture sharing, and spiritual FAQs. Pastors like Rev. Louis Attles have developed tools to assist in research and sermon writing.
“You can’t outsource your morality,” Attles said. “It cannot keep a covenant for you.”
Rev. Chris Hope, who consults on ethical AI through the Hope Group, sees promise: “Every church or house of worship is a business. There are absolutely opportunities to generate AI bots to evangelize.”
Still, experts warn that many apps rely on unvetted or ideologically narrow data.
“The risks are very high,” said Mark Graves, research director at AI and Faith.
