A new publication by the Latin American and Caribbean Episcopal Council (CELAM), titled “Artificial Intelligence: A Pastoral Perspective from Latin America and the Caribbean,” seeks to guide the Church’s pastoral missions in the Americas towards the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in their evangelizing efforts.
This ambitious and insightful study reflects CELAM’s intention to engage the Church more actively in preparing its faithful for the realities of a rapidly evolving digital world. As Ariana Pernía Paolini reports from the Vatican, the central message of the research emphasizes a Church that not only responds to today’s needs but also anticipates the challenges of tomorrow.
Guillermo Sandoval, Director of the Center for Knowledge Management at CELAM, stresses that the Church must be involved in contemporary and future issues alike. “The Church must be present not only in today’s topics but also in those of the future,” he asserts, highlighting the need for proactive pastoral engagement with technological change.
A Historical Approach with an Eye on the Future
Sandoval explains that the study draws upon the Church’s rich historical tradition of thought, combined with the need to offer new responses to modern challenges. The inspiration behind the initiative came from CELAM’s mission to interpret the “signs of the times,” which now includes the rapid development of AI as one of the defining elements of this era.
Pontificates United by a Common Mission
Sandoval points to a continuity between Pope Leo XIII, Pope Francis, and other pontiffs regarding their concern for the ethical use of technology. He notes that Pope Francis, in particular, has consistently emphasized discernment and responsibility in the face of growing AI use. A key concern highlighted in CELAM’s document is how AI may impact labor conditions — a topic the Pope has addressed with urgency and compassion.
This approach to technology within the Church demonstrates a historical continuity that will likely guide CELAM’s future research and reflection.
The Illusion of Thinking Machines
One of the more philosophical concerns raised in the study is the widespread illusion that machines are beginning to “think.” Sandoval is clear: what we are witnessing is not true cognitive thought but rather a fast and sophisticated processing of data. This critical perspective helps position CELAM as a leading voice in shaping the Church’s response to technological advancements in Latin American society.
AI as a Tool for the Common Good
For Sandoval, the first pastoral responsibility is to educate people to live in a modern world. He calls on the Church to embrace AI and technological innovation not as threats, but as opportunities — tools that must be harnessed for the common good.
In this light, the Latin American and Caribbean Church is invited to reaffirm the authenticity of its message and mission. “The authenticity of our message, the value of our testimony, and our capacity to love must define us,” concludes Sandoval.
CELAM’s study offers a thoughtful roadmap for integrating faith and innovation, ensuring that AI becomes a servant to humanity, not its master.