By Dorothy Fernandes for BIS Mumbai

Around 35 priests and religious of the Diocese of Vasai gathered at Don Bosco High School, Naigaon, for their monthly deanery meeting hosted by the Salesians, on March 12, 2026. The session, “Artificial Intelligence – A Tool for the Discernment of Priests,” was led by Fr Joaquim Fernandes and focused on understanding AI from a pastoral and Catholic perspective, with emphasis on human dignity and the common good.

The session began with students from Classes V to XI sharing their experiences with AI tools. While younger students used AI in moderation under supervision, some senior students reported extensive usage. They highlighted both benefits and concerns such as misinformation and overdependence. Fr Fernandes stressed that AI can support learning but cannot replace human relationships essential for holistic development.

Fr Fernandes explained that AI is a product of human intelligence, a gift from God. Referring to Church teachings such as Antiqua et Nova, he emphasized that AI should complement—not replace—human intelligence, moral responsibility, and spiritual discernment.

He traced AI’s origins to 1956, when the term was introduced by John McCarthy. Since then, AI has grown rapidly, especially in recent decades, becoming a key part of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and influencing many areas of life.

 The session highlighted ethical concerns surrounding AI, including its impact on relationships, privacy, education, and truth. Fr Fernandes warned against misuse such as misinformation and deepfakes, stressing that AI must always support human freedom and responsibility.

 Drawing from recent studies, he noted that AI may disrupt cognitive jobs more than manual ones. In India, small-scale farmers may struggle to adopt such technologies, raising pastoral concerns for communities already facing economic challenges. Fr Fernandes encouraged reflection on key questions about AI’s impact on jobs, education, and ministry. He emphasized that technology must serve humanity and not replace essential human roles.

He also discussed Catholic AI platforms like Magisterium AI, noting their usefulness but urging careful evaluation. Priests must guide the faithful responsibly, as AI cannot replace authentic teaching.

 Highlighting potential dangers, he referred to cases where AI misuse caused harm, stressing the need for caution. He recommended reliable catechetical resources such as Kenosis for sound faith formation.

 The session concluded with a call to embrace AI responsibly while remaining rooted in Gospel values. Fr Fernandes reminded participants that technology must always serve people and uphold human dignity, with the Church continuing its mission of guidance and discernment in a changing world.