AI in Worship: Threat, Tool, or Transformation?

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into religious settings is a rapidly evolving phenomenon that raises profound theological, ethical, and cultural questions. As AI-driven tools increasingly intersect with faith-based practices, religious communities are grappling with their implications on worship, leadership, and spiritual engagement. This study explores AI’s impact on religious and spiritual information practices, particularly in sermon delivery and faith-based discourse. Using qualitative content analysis and sentiment analysis, this study examines nearly 500 comments on AI-generated sermons to assess public perceptions, emotional responses, and reactions. The findings reveal widespread skepticism, with concerns rooted in biblical prophecy, the belief that AI lacks a soul, and fears of AI worship replacing traditional religious leadership. Despite these concerns, some recognize AI’s potential in improving accessibility, religious education, and administrative efficiency. This study highlights the tensions between technological advancements and deeply held spiritual values, offering a nuanced perspective on AI’s role in shaping modern faith communities. By grounding the discussion in theories of information practices (McKenzie, 2003), sense-making (Caidi & Karim, 2022), and digital religious engagement (AlAjarma & Buitelaar, 2021), it provides valuable insights for scholars, religious leaders, and technologists seeking responsible AI implementation in faith-based contexts. Integrating AI agents into religious settings calls for approaches that are both culturally aware and spiritually grounded (Perera, 2023). As AI becomes more involved in spiritual life, this study encourages thoughtful conversation about its place in faith-based communities. It explores both the potential benefits and the challenges, emphasizing that technology should support – not replace – religious traditions. The author highlights the importance of using AI to foster meaningful engagement and outreach.