Austrian bishops adopt first rules on AI in the Catholic Church

Nov 13, 2026
AI may support but never replace preaching, sacraments or pastoral care, and every diocese must appoint an AI officer.

The Austrian Bishops' Conference has adopted its first rules on artificial intelligence in the Church, stating that AI may never take the place of human relationships, pastoral conversations or the rites of the Church, EWTN News reports.

"The use of AI in the celebration of the sacraments, preaching, liturgy, or pastoral care may only be supportive," the framework says. Every diocese must appoint a person responsible for AI, and a national working group of diocesan AI officers will include experts in data protection, IT and theological ethics. The rules take effect once published in the conference's official gazette.

We hope you enjoyed this article

Consider subscribing to one of our newsletters like Daily AI Brief.

Also, consider following us on social media:

AI Brief AI Brief (X)
Free newsletter

Daily AI Brief

Daily report covering major AI developments and industry news, with both top stories and complete market updates

Guide
AI tools for teachers

AI tools for teachers

AI software for planning lessons, adapting materials, running activities and reviewing student work.

Industry analysis

2025 Global Business Services Agenda: Gen AI Takes Center Stage

The Hackett Group

This industry analysis by The Hackett Group explores the transformative impact of generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI) on global business services (GBS) in 2025. The study highlights the shift from exploration to acceleration of Gen AI initiatives, with 89% of executives advancing these projects to improve customer satisfaction, innovate products, and reduce costs. The report also discusses the challenges and strategies for successful Gen AI adoption, emphasizing the need for a technology-enabled operating model and the importance of reskilling the workforce.

Read more

You may also like

Free, six days a week

Daily AI Brief: the AI news that matters, in your inbox.