Intersecting Public Theology, Mission, & AI

Published Date::27/09/2024

Kristu Jyoti College, Bangalore, hosts seminar on Public Theology, Mission, and Artificial Intelligence: Prospects and Challenges

Kristu Jyoti College, Bangalore, in collaboration with the Pontifical Salesian University, Rome, recently hosted a seminar on Public Theology, Mission, and Artificial Intelligence  Prospects and Challenges. The two-day event brought together faculty and students to reflect on the evolving nature of public theology, its relevance in the modern world, and the increasing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in education and evangelization.

The seminar began with a prayer dance and a welcome address from Dr. Shabu Thottumkal. The keynote speaker, Dr. F. V. Anthony, introduced the concept of public theology, which he described as “Theology in exit.” He emphasized that theology must step out of academic confines and engage with the world's real issues. Referencing Pope Francis, Dr. Anthony highlighted the transition from Missio Ad Gentes to Missio Inter Gentes—a mission that fosters mutual growth between the Church and society.

Dr. Michal Vojtas delivered a presentation on the evolution of culture, from oral traditions to digital platforms, drawing attention to AI’s growing role in today’s digital era. Using the example of Salesian AI, a tool for research and education, he explained how AI can gather and present complex data coherently. He underscored that, when used ethically, AI could serve as a valuable asset in education and evangelization, helping the Church in its mission.

Vibrant group discussions were held over both days, with the 230 students divided into 12 groups. The discussions focused on the role of curricula in promoting human development, the challenges of religious and cultural diversity in local contexts, the application of AI in education and social services, and the role of the laity in promoting human rights. A key theme emerging from these discussions was how to achieve human development in a diverse and evolving world.

On the second day, discussions focused on practical applications of public theology in education and social service. Dr. Anthony shared examples of how Christian outreach could influence social change. One moving example was the story of Mr. M.F. Farooqui, an Indian administrator inspired by Christian values to initiate humanitarian projects, including the Anbu Illam at Salem.

Fr. Vojtas further explored the potential of AI in social service, suggesting that it could enhance outreach efforts by streamlining operations. However, he cautioned that AI should not replace the personal, human connection central to mission work.

As the seminar concluded, Dr. Kadankavil James synthesized the discussions, emphasizing that theology should always move from God to people and from people back to God. He encouraged participants to engage actively with the challenges and opportunities of public theology and AI, urging them to be doers of the Word, not just hearers.

  About Kristu Jyoti College  

Kristu Jyoti College is a Salesian institution located in Bangalore, India. The college is committed to providing quality education and promoting human development through its various programs and initiatives.

  About Pontifical Salesian University  

The Pontifical Salesian University is a Catholic university located in Rome, Italy. The university is dedicated to providing higher education and promoting research in various fields, including theology, philosophy, and social sciences.

  About Don Bosco India  

Don Bosco India is a non-profit organization that works towards promoting education, healthcare, and social development in India. The organization is inspired by the values of Saint John Bosco and is committed to serving the marginalized and underprivileged communities in India.

FAQS:

Q: What is public theology?

A: Public theology refers to the practice of theology that engages with the world's real issues and promotes mutual growth between the Church and society.

Q: How can AI be used in education and evangelization?

A: AI can be used to gather and present complex data coherently, and can serve as a valuable asset in education and evangelization when used ethically.

Q: What is the role of the laity in promoting human rights?

A: The laity play a crucial role in promoting human rights by engaging actively with the challenges and opportunities of public theology and AI.

Q: How can Christian outreach influence social change?

A: Christian outreach can influence social change by promoting values such as compassion, justice, and equality, and by inspiring individuals to initiate humanitarian projects.

Q: What is the importance of human connection in mission work?

A: Human connection is central to mission work, and AI should not replace the personal, human connection that is essential for building relationships and promoting social change.

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