Church Leaders in Mumbai Explore Ethical Use of AI in Pastoral Ministry

Mumbai, March 28, 2026: In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, Church leaders, clergy, and lay faithful gathered in significant numbers to reflect on the responsible use of technology in ministry. A seminar titled “Using Artificial Intelligence in the Mission and Ministries of the Church” drew more than 200 participants to the Pauline Communication Centre in Bandra, in collaboration with the Archdiocese of Bombay.

Held at the Thecla Merlo Hall, the seminar brought together pastoral practitioners and communication experts for a day of reflection on the opportunities and challenges presented by Artificial Intelligence (AI). The sessions were led by Fr. Dr. Walter D’Souza, Fr. Dr. Gavin Lopes, and Bishop Emeritus Allwyn D’Silva, each offering insights that combined practical application with ethical discernment.

Fr. Walter D’Souza highlighted the growing relevance of AI tools in pastoral contexts, demonstrating their use in research, content creation, presentations, and media production. Emphasising integrity in digital engagement, he urged participants to verify sources and guard against misuse. He also introduced the concept of “prompt engineering,” noting that well-framed queries significantly enhance the quality of AI-generated outputs.

Addressing the ethical dimensions, Fr. Gavin Lopes cautioned against the uncritical adoption of AI technologies. He raised concerns about threats to human dignity, including deepfakes, data privacy violations, surveillance, and widening economic disparities. Stressing the need for accountability, he encouraged the Church to embrace AI in areas such as education and data management, while ensuring consistent human oversight.

In his address, Bishop Emeritus Allwyn D’Silva called for a proactive engagement with digital culture, particularly in reaching younger generations. He advocated for creative pastoral approaches, including hybrid models and dynamic digital content. At the same time, he warned against excessive dependence on technology, especially in preaching and catechesis, underscoring the irreplaceable value of authentic human and spiritual encounters.

The seminar offered a balanced and thoughtful vision of AI as a supportive tool in Church ministry, while underscoring the importance of ethical responsibility and pastoral sensitivity.

Organisers described the initiative as part of a broader effort to promote informed and responsible engagement with emerging technologies. Sr. Anna Kipounamai FSP, Director of the Pauline Communication Centre, expressed optimism about future programmes and encouraged greater participation across the archdiocese in ongoing digital formation initiatives.

Church Leaders in Mumbai Explore Ethical Use of AI in Pastoral Ministry

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