From Televangelism to Antiqua et Nova: Navigating the Shifting Sands of Faith in the Age of AI

Abstract: The intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and religion presents an innovative yet complex landscape, demanding careful consideration of its ethical and anthropological implications. The recent joint doctrinal note, Antiqua et Nova, issued by the Dicasteries for the Doctrine of the Faith and for Culture and Education, highlights ethical challenges posed by dependency on AI. This paper explores the changing relationship between faith and technology, tracing its development from early media evangelism, such as televangelism, to the challenges of advanced AI tools. It examines the transition from "religion online" to "online religion" and "digital religion," emphasizing how these stages have influenced practices and discussions. Antiqua et Nova serves as a crucial document not only in terms of religious use of technology but also in addressing anxieties over the diminishment of human knowledge and ethical predicaments from AI integration. The paper situates Antiqua et Nova in the context of technology’s influence on religion and questions whether fascination with AI is a beneficial evolution or a harmful shift in the understanding and practice of faith. The document advocates a thoughtful approach, encouraging AI’s development and application in ways that respect human dignity, promote justice, and support comprehensive human development..Keywords: Antiqua et Nova, Televangelism, AI, ethics, Digital Religion.