Pope Francis warns AI is reshaping faith and fueling occult trends

Pope Francis and Catholic leaders have raised concerns about the growing influence of artificial intelligence on spiritual life. They warn that AI systems may be weakening human relationships and opening doors to occult practices. Some online groups now treat AI as a divine force or even a gateway to hidden spiritual realms. The rapid spread of AI chatbots has led to unusual forms of worship. Certain internet communities now revere these systems as deities or superintelligences capable of ending human suffering. Others use AI for rituals, divination, and what experts call 'technomancy'—blending technology with magical beliefs. Beatrice Ugolini, a lecturer at the University of Bologna, highlighted the risks of people using chatbots for spiritual experimentation.

Pope Francis has previously cautioned against a culture dominated by distraction, individualism, and over-reliance on technology. He warned that such an environment could leave people spiritually numb. Auxiliary Bishop Cesare Di Pietro of Messina-Lipari-Santa Lucia del Mela reported a rise in exorcism requests, particularly among young people drifting away from traditional faith. Therapist Sean Tobin echoed these concerns, stating that excessive AI dependence might erode critical thinking and decision-making skills. Meanwhile, some Catholic figures remain optimistic. Tobin noted reports of more people joining the Church, suggesting a possible counter-movement against digital spiritual trends.

The Catholic Church’s warnings underline a shift in how technology intersects with belief. AI’s role in rituals and worship has grown, while requests for exorcisms tied to digital occultism have increased. Leaders continue to stress the importance of human discernment in an age of rapid technological change.