Experts and church leaders have reaffirmed that Artificial Intelligence (AI) will not replace Catholic priests in their pastoral duties, emphasising instead its potential to enhance evangelism and religious education.
The statement was made during the 4th Enugu Catholic Diocesan Synod, held from November 16 to 22, 2025, under the theme “Faith and Practice in Enugu Diocese: Opportunities and Challenges.”
Mr. Chinedu Chibuzor, Director of ICT at Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, stressed that AI should be seen as a supportive tool rather than a threat to the Christian faith.
Speaking on “Social Media, AI, Technology, and New Evangelism,” Chibuzor encouraged priests to use AI for research, online youth training, and expanding the reach of their teachings.
“AI can assist priests in their pastoral work, but it can never replace them.
“Christians must use social media and AI responsibly to advance the church’s mission of evangelism, ” he said.
Auxiliary Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Most Rev. Ernest Obodo, also highlighted that the sacramental nature of the church ensures priests will always maintain a physical presence during Holy Mass and other religious rites, citing the COVID-19 pandemic as a rare exception when restrictions temporarily altered this practice.
Bishop Callistus Onaga, Catholic Bishop of Enugu Diocese, emphasised that the synod aimed to address challenges such as social media influence, youth empowerment, neo-paganism, and the use of AI, while also celebrating the diocese’s human and infrastructural achievements since the last synod in 2013.
“Social media and AI present both opportunities and challenges to evangelism.
“The synod brings together church members to discuss these issues and make important pastoral decisions for the diocese, ” he said.
Highlighting the importance of catechesis, His Eminence Peter Cardinal Okparaeke, Catholic Bishop of Ekwulobia Diocese, noted that many Christians lose faith due to exploitation by prosperity preachers.
He urged priests to craft homilies with practical relevance and to nurture the faith of parishioners intentionally.
Rev. Fr. Christian Anieke, Chairman of the Synod Planning Committee, described the gathering as an opportunity to explore innovative ways to strengthen the Christian faith while addressing modern challenges.
“We hope that our discussions will equip participants with actionable solutions to deepen their faith and engage with contemporary issues effectively,” he said.
The synod has brought together three bishops, 531 priests, and numerous religious institutions, reflecting the diocese’s commitment to guiding its faithful through the evolving social and technological landscape.
