Catholic Bishops in Philippines Launch AI Seminar for Pastoral Ministry Guidance
The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) is embracing the digital age with a groundbreaking four-day seminar dedicated to artificial intelligence (AI), serving as a crucial prelude to their upcoming 131st Plenary Assembly. This initiative highlights the Church's proactive approach to integrating modern technology into its spiritual mission while addressing the complex challenges it presents.
AI Orientation Focuses on Responsible Use and Ethical Risks
In a recent social media announcement, the CBCP – Episcopal Commission on Social Communications (ECSC) revealed that the seminar will provide an in-depth AI orientation for prelates. The program is specifically designed to explore the responsible application of artificial intelligence in pastoral ministry, with a strong emphasis on navigating its ethical, security, and moral implications. According to the CBCP – ECSC, there is an urgent need for the Church to engage with emerging technologies through a lens of discernment, pastoral wisdom, and moral responsibility.
The commission further elaborated that this move underscores the bishops' unwavering commitment to guiding the faithful wisely amidst rapid technological advancements. By doing so, they aim to ensure that innovation consistently serves the core values of evangelization, truth, and the preservation of human dignity. This seminar represents a significant step in bridging the gap between traditional religious practices and the fast-evolving digital landscape.
Seminar Sets Stage for 131st Plenary Assembly in Manila
The AI seminar is strategically scheduled ahead of the 131st CBCP Plenary Assembly, which is set to take place at the Pope Pius XII Catholic Center in Manila from January 24 to 26. This timing allows bishops to incorporate insights from the seminar into the broader discussions and decisions of the plenary meeting. The forthcoming assembly holds particular significance as it will be the first presided over by CBCP President Archbishop Gilbert Garcera of Lipa and Vice President Archbishop Julius Tonel of Zamboanga since they assumed their leadership roles on December 1, 2025.
As of Tuesday, at the commencement of the seminar, a total of 70 prelates were in attendance at the Pope Pius XII Catholic Center, demonstrating strong participation from the Church's leadership. Currently, the CBCP boasts a robust membership that includes 83 active bishops, 42 retired bishops, and four diocesan administrators, reflecting the widespread engagement in this technological initiative across the Philippine Catholic community.
