Pondicherry Priests Explore AI’s Role in Pastoral Ministry

Pondicherry, November 13, 2026: Around 110 priests of the Archdiocese of Pondicherry and Cuddalore participated in a diocesan seminar on Pope Leo XIV’s encyclical Magnifica Humanitas, focusing on human dignity and the challenges of artificial intelligence (AI) in pastoral ministry.

The seminar, organised jointly by Fr. Jayanth Rayan, Secretary of the Diocesan Media Commission, and Fr Devasagayaraj, Episcopal Vicar for Priests, also included a special practical training session for younger priests on using social media and AI in ministry.

Archbishop Francis Kalist, inaugurating the seminar, urged priests to use AI responsibly while ensuring that technology serves humanity and respects the dignity of every person. He called for an inclusive pastoral approach, stressing that no one should face discrimination on the grounds of caste, poverty or social background.

Fr. Devasagayaraj, in his introductory remarks, highlighted the need for the Church to engage with rapid technological developments. He also noted the significance of holding the seminar on the feast of St. Leo the Great.

Vicar General Fr. Kuzhandaisamy placed the discussion in the historical context of the Church's social teaching, referring to Pope Leo XIII's encyclical Rerum Novarum, which addressed the social challenges arising from the Industrial Revolution. He drew parallels with the need for the Church to respond to the ethical and social questions raised by emerging technologies.

Fr. Jenith Sekar, Technical Manager of Madha TV, the television channel of the Tamil Nadu Bishops' Council, served as the resource person. Drawing on biblical teachings and Church documents, he examined the relationship between technology, human dignity, ethics and social responsibility. He also discussed the opportunities and risks of AI and its implications for Christian life and pastoral ministry.

Group discussions enabled the priests to examine the practical applications of AI, its potential risks and ways to address the challenges it presents in Church activities.

The afternoon session focused on using social media for evangelisation, faith formation and communication, particularly to engage younger generations. Younger priests shared their experiences of using digital platforms and AI in their ministries.

Participants also worked in groups to plan pastoral and social activities using social media and digital communication tools. The exercise highlighted how technology could help promote Church initiatives, encourage participation and strengthen community engagement.

The seminar concluded with a commitment among the priests to update their digital knowledge and skills to respond more effectively to the pastoral needs of younger generations, particularly Gen Z.

The discussions emphasised that while AI and social media offer new opportunities for the Church, their use must remain guided by ethical responsibility, human dignity, inclusion and the Church's mission of proclaiming the Gospel.

By Catholic Connect Reporter