Salesian Brothers Embrace Artificial Intelligence to Strengthen Education and Youth Ministry

MANGALURU, July 30, 2026: Salesian Brothers from across South Asia explored the growing role of Artificial Intelligence in education, evangelisation and youth ministry during a two-day online workshop that highlighted practical digital tools for pastoral and institutional ministry.

Held on July 28 and 29, the workshop brought together more than 35 Salesian Brothers representing provinces across India for an interactive training programme designed to equip participants with future-ready digital skills. The sessions were coordinated by Brother James and led by Leo Victor, an Oracle and Google Certified Generative AI Coach.

The programme introduced participants to the fundamentals of Generative AI, covering AI-powered writing assistants, prompt engineering, advanced research techniques and practical applications for teaching, communication, documentation and institutional administration. The sessions focused on how emerging technologies can improve productivity while supporting the educational and pastoral mission of the Church.

Live demonstrations and hands-on exercises enabled participants to explore creative AI tools, including Text-to-Voice, Text-to-Video, Text-to-Music and Canva AI. The workshop showed how these technologies can be used to develop educational resources, multimedia presentations, communication materials and digital content for evangelisation and youth engagement.

Participants actively took part in discussions, collaborative exercises and practical assignments throughout the programme, reflecting on the responsible use of technology in the mission of accompanying young people.

Addressing the gathering, Leo Victor encouraged the brothers to view Artificial Intelligence as a tool that complements, rather than replaces, human creativity and pastoral ministry. He stressed that AI should be used ethically and responsibly in the service of the Church, education and society.

The participants expressed confidence in applying the newly acquired skills in their schools, youth centres, parishes and communities. They also acknowledged the efforts of Brother James in organising the workshop and facilitating the learning experience.

The initiative reflected the Salesian commitment to embracing technological innovation while remaining rooted in the educational vision of Saint John Bosco. By equipping educators and pastoral workers with digital competencies, the Salesian Brothers aim to respond more effectively to the evolving needs of young people in an increasingly technology-driven world.

By Catholic Connect Reporter