A viral Facebook post claimed that St. Peter’s Chapel in Lucerne, Switzerland, has introduced an AI hologram of Jesus to hear confessions. The post, which was shared widely, alleged that worshippers could use the technology as a substitute for traditional Catholic confession.
The claims are false. The installation, titled “Deus in Machina,” is an art project designed to encourage dialogue about religion, not to offer confession. Church officials and religious experts confirm that the Catholic sacrament of reconciliation must occur in person with a priest per Church law.
Purpose of the AI Installation
The interactive AI-powered Jesus is displayed in a confessional booth and intended solely for scripture and faith discussions. Before interacting, users are warned not to disclose personal information, a direct contradiction of confession’s requirements.
Theologian Marco Schmid emphasized that the project is an experiment in engaging with religious ideas, not a functional confessional. The installation’s demonstrations reinforce this intent, with disclaimers and required user agreements highlighting its limitations.
Confession Requires a Priest
Experts stress that Catholic confession is deeply personal and requires a priest authorized to proclaim forgiveness. Canon laws 965 and 966 explicitly prohibit any substitute for in-person confession, including AI.
Theologians such as Rev. Thomas Rausch and Ulrich Lehner confirmed that the Vatican has consistently rejected virtual confessions. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, alternatives like drive-up confessions were implemented to preserve the sacrament’s integrity.
Limits of AI in Spiritual Practices
Religious scholars argue that confession’s sacredness lies in its interpersonal, human aspects, which AI cannot replicate. David DeCosse, an ethics expert, highlighted the emotional and spiritual depth AI lacks, underscoring its unsuitability for sacraments.
Despite their popularity online, the claims misrepresent the art installation’s purpose. Experts caution against confusing creative experiments with authentic religious practices.
Source:
Confession to a computer? Experts say ‘AI Jesus’ can’t perform sacrament | Fact check
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