Fr. Arockia Selvakumar of Alaigal Media, Trichy, led the seminar with an engaging introduction to AI-generated media and its catechetical potential. From AI-generated images to animated gospel reflections, he demonstrated how technology can serve as a modern-day parable, capturing hearts and minds. “Today’s playground is new media,” he said, emphasizing that faith communication must meet people where they are—online.

Through tools like Slido, Canva, SUNO, and Magisterium AI, Fr. Selvakumar demonstrated how catechists can create interactive lessons, music, podcasts, and visual content that resonate with today’s digital natives. Yet, he offered caution: “AI is like a child—it learns from us. Technology doesn’t replace the catechist; it empowers one filled with love and mission.”

The seminar also addressed ethical concerns in AI use, referencing recent debates, such as the “AI Jesus” controversy in Switzerland. Fr. Don Bosco, Provincial of Chennai, affirmed the initiative, urging catechists to view their work as a spiritual formation, not just a program. “Every parish is a school of catechism,” he stressed, encouraging deeper pastoral outreach.

As the Church ventures into the digital frontier, this seminar marks a bold step toward harmonizing tradition with innovation grounded in human dignity and faith.