A National Research Seminar on “AI and Religion: Intersectional Explorations” was held from 2–3 September 2026 at the Ecumenical Resource Centre (ERC), United Theological College (UTC), Bengaluru. The seminar was organized under the aegis of the National Biblical Catechetical and Liturgical Centre (NBCLC), in collaboration with 12 institutions of higher education in Bengaluru. Around 70 research scholars and professors participated in the two-day seminar.

The seminar was inaugurated by dignitaries representing the participating institutions. Rev. Fr. Dr. John Baptist, Director of NBCLC, delivered the concept note and set the tone for the academic discussions that followed. The theme, “AI and Religion: Intersectional Explorations,” was examined through four plenary sessions and 13 research papers presented by scholars from various academic and ecclesial backgrounds.

The resource persons included Dr. Ananthi, Professor, Montfort Institute of Advanced Studies; Dr. Suparna Kar and Rev. Fr. Eduardo Gabriel of Christ University; Dr. John Bosco Lourdusamy of IIT Madras; and Rev. Fr. Selvakumar, SDB, Rector of Don Bosco, Namakkal.

The seminar explored the intersection of artificial intelligence and religion from multiple perspectives, including socio-psychological well-being, religious engagement, ethics, inequality, spirituality, and technological knowledge. The research papers addressed a wide range of contemporary concerns, including digital discipleship and mission, interfaith dialogue, data colonialism, and the ethical implications of emerging technologies.

The presentations and discussions highlighted the need for informed, responsible, and human-centred engagement with artificial intelligence. Participants reflected on the importance of safeguarding human creativity, dignity, responsibility, and meaningful relationships in an increasingly AI-driven world. The discussions also emphasized the responsibility of religious and academic communities to engage critically and constructively with technological developments.

The seminar concluded with a closing ceremony during which Fr. Dr. John Baptist proposed the vote of thanks. He expressed gratitude to the heads and representatives of the participating institutions for their collaboration and particularly acknowledged Rev. Dr. Israel A. David, Principal of United Theological College, for hosting the National Research Seminar at the Ecumenical Resource Centre.

The two-day seminar provided a significant academic platform for scholars and educators to engage in interdisciplinary reflection on the rapidly evolving relationship between artificial intelligence, religion, humanity, and society, encouraging continued research and dialogue on the ethical and spiritual dimensions of emerging technologies.