THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, Kerala (Indian Catholic News) — The Syro Malankara Catholic Church has issued a circular urging the faithful to balance reason, faith, and artificial intelligence to safeguard human dignity and foster moral discipleship.
Addressing priests, religious, catechists, parents, and children, the circular highlights the role of rational catechesis as the Syro Malankara Catholic Church prepares for its Reunion Centenary in 2030 — a milestone that recalls the historic moment in 1930, when leaders of the Malankara tradition entered into full communion with Rome after centuries of separation.
“Humanity is called to seek God by utilizing the talents and goodness bestowed upon man by God, to know, love, and serve Him, and to be transformed into disciples of Christ,” wrote Archbishop Thomas Koorilos Chakkalapadickal of Tiruvalla, chairman of the Syro Malankara’s Synodal Commission for Faith Formation.
“Reason and faith are mutually complementary. While reason devoid of faith leads to pride and to the loss of the holistic integrity of life, faith devoid of reason leads to blindness and error. Therefore, rational and coherent catechesis is imperative.”
The message notes that Divine Revelation serves as the foundation of the Church’s catechetical mission, preserved through scripture, Church Fathers, and official magisterium. Modern tools are encouraged to reach younger generations.
“Amidst contemporary challenges such as atheism, superstition, the erosion of moral values, and materialism, the truths of faith must be transmitted through methods that are engaging, relevant, and effective for the new generation,” the circular states. “For this purpose, the possibilities of modern technologies and pedagogical methods should be utilized prudently, and Diocesan Catechetical Directorates must provide active leadership.”
Faith formation in the era of AI
Examining the role of technology, the document directly addresses the rise of artificial intelligence in education, healthcare, communication, finance, and religious life.
“In the Church’s teachings on AI, Pope Leo XIV particularly emphasizes the dignity of the human person. Although machines can simulate human intelligence, they possess neither conscience, compassion, nor moral responsibility,” Archbishop Chakkalapadickal noted.
The text emphasizes that while answers are obtained instantly today, technology cannot answer fundamental human questions regarding identity, purpose, truth, and what happens after death.
The circular stresses that artificial intelligence cannot serve as a replacement for spiritual grace, human connection, or personal salvation.
“Although AI makes life easier, it cannot be a substitute for eternal salvation. Prayer, sacrifice, grace, repentance, and love are indispensable for a holy life,” the text states. “Even as AI transforms the world, machines can never replace the human soul, conscience, or divine grace. Consequently, the relevance of faith formation in this AI era does not diminish; rather, it becomes all the more essential.”
The circular was read across Syro Malankara churches and mission centres during Mass on Faith Formation Day, Aug. 2, 2026.
Full statement available: original Malayalam and AI‑generated English translation.
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