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Would you trust an "AI Jesus" with your innermost thoughts and troubles? Researchers and religious leaders on Wednesday released findings from a two-month experiment through art in a Catholic chapel in Switzerland, where an avatar of "Jesus" on a computer screen — tucked into a confessional — took questions by visitors on faith, morality and modern-day woes, and offered responses based on Scripture. Related video above: How AI-generated news sites threaten election integrity The idea, said the chapel's theological assistant, was to recognize the growing importance of artificial intelligence in human lives, even when it comes to religion, and explore the limits of human trust in a machine. After the two-month run of the "Deus in Machina" exhibit at Peter's Chapel starting in late August, some 900 conversations from visitors — some came more than once — were transcribed anonymously. Those behind the project said it was largely a success: Visitors often came out moved or deep in thought, and found it easy to use. A small sign invited visitors to enter a confessional — chosen for its intimacy — and below a lattice screen across which penitent believers would usually speak with a priest, a green light signaled the visitor's turn to speak, and a red one came on when "AI Jesus" on a computer screen on the other side was responding. Often, a lag time was needed to wait for the response — a testament to the technical complexities. After exiting, nearly 300 visitors filled out questionnaires that informed the report released Wednesday. Philipp Haslbauer, an IT specialist at the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts who pulled together the technical side of the project, said the AI responsible for taking the role of "AI Jesus" and generating responses was GPT-4o by OpenAI, and an open-source version of the company's Whisper was used for speech comprehension. An AI video generator from Heygen was used to produce voice and video from a real person, he said. Haslbauer said no specific safeguards were used "because we observed GPT-4o to respond fairly well to controversial topics." Visitors broached many topics, including true love, the afterlife, feelings of solitude, war and suffering in the world, the existence of God, plus issues like sexual abuse cases in the Catholic Church or its position on homosexuality. Most visitors described themselves as Christians, though agnostics, atheists, Muslims, Buddhists and Taoists took part too, according to a recap of the project released by the Catholic parish of Lucerne. About one-third were German speakers, but "AI Jesus" — which is conversant in about 100 languages — also had conversations in languages like Chinese, English, French, Hungarian, Italian, Russian and Spanish. "What was really interesting (was) to see that the people really talked with him in a serious way. They didn't come to make jokes," said chapel theologian Marco Schmid, who spearheaded the project. Most visitors were aged 40 to 70, and more Catholic respondents found the experience stimulating than did Protestants, the report showed. Schmid was quick to point out that the "AI Jesus" — billed as a "Jesus-like" persona — was an artistic experiment to get people thinking about the intersection between the digital and the divine, not substitute for human interaction or sacramental confessions with a priest, nor was it intended to save pastoral resources. "For the people, it was clear that it was a computer ... It was clear it was not a confession," Schmid said. "He wasn't programmed to give absolutions or prayers. At the end, it was more summary of the conversation." The Catholic Church, from the Vatican on down, has been wrestling with the challenges — and possible opportunities — presented by the explosion in public interest in AI since generative artificial intelligence captured the world's attention two years ago when OpenAI's ChatGPT made its debut. The Vatican has appointed a friar from a medieval Franciscan order as its top expert on AI, and a Lutheran church in Bavaria served up sermons delivered by a chatbot last year. Pope Francis, in his annual peace message for this year, pushed for an international treaty to ensure the ethical use of AI technology. Chatbots like ChatGPT are powered by algorithmic models trained on vast pools of text and other data to mimic speech and generate seemingly unique and human-like responses. Haslbauer is sensitive to public reaction and has noted chatter on social media saying the project is "blasphemous" or the "work of the devil." "If you read comments on the internet about it, some are very negative — which is scary," Haslbauer, whose long-haired look featured as a basis for the image of the virtual Jesus. In a demonstration of the technology in the chapel, Haslbauer queried "AI Jesus" about its message for a troubled world, and about whether AI could be helpful as a way for people to find God. "All knowledge and wisdom ultimately come from God," the chatbot said in a soothing voice, after a pause to respond, and the image briefly crackled. "If used wisely, AI can indeed be a tool to explore the wonders of creation, deepen our understanding of Scripture, and foster connections among people." "Yet it remains essential to seek God with all your heart and soul beyond any technology," it added. Kenneth Cukier — a journalist, author and expert with the U.S.-based nonprofit group called "AI and Faith" — said if "AI Jesus" helps people connect deeper to themselves and the world, it "has to be a good thing." "It will lead to better individuals and a better world," he said. "However — and there's a big however — this does feel a little bit infantile, and pardon my pun, machine-like." "The risk is that it pulls people, ultimately, farther away from that which is more meaningful, deeper and authentic in spirituality," said Cukier, the co-author of "Big Data: A Revolution that Will Transform How We Work, Live and Think." For Schmid, the exhibit was a pilot project — and he doesn't foresee a second coming of "AI Jesus" anytime soon. "For us, it was also clear it was just a limited time that we will expose this Jesus," he said, adding that any return would need to be done after deeper thought. "We are discussing ... how we could revive him again," he said, noting interest from parishes, schoolteachers, researchers and others as the project got media attention in Switzerland and beyond. "They all are interested and would like to have this 'AI Jesus.' So we have now a little bit to reflect on how we want to continue." ___ Associated Press religion coverage receives support through the AP's collaboration with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content. —— The Associated Press and OpenAI have a licensing and technology agreement that allows OpenAI access to part of AP's text archives.Five years since its inception, a US development agency competes with China on global projectsNo. 7 Tennessee 36, Vanderbilt 23
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WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump said Wednesday that he has chosen Keith Kellogg, a highly decorated retired three-star general, to serve as his special envoy for Ukraine and Russia. Kellogg, who is one of the architects of a staunchly conservative policy book that lays out an “America First” national security agenda for the incoming administration, will come into the role as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine enters its third year in February. Trump, making the announcement on his Truth Social account, said, “He was with me right from the beginning! Together, we will secure PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH, and Make America, and the World, SAFE AGAIN!” Kellogg, an 80-year-old retired Army lieutenant general who has long been Trump’s top adviser on defense issues, served as national security adviser to Vice President Mike Pence , was chief of staff of the National Security Council and then stepped in as an acting security adviser for Trump after Michael Flynn resigned. As special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, Kellogg will have to navigate an increasingly untenable war between the two nations. The Biden administration has begun urging Ukraine to quickly increase the size of its military by drafting more troops and revamping its mobilization laws to allow for the conscription of those as young as 18. The White House has pushed more than $56 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since the start of Russia’s February 2022 invasion and expects to send billions more before Biden leaves office in less than two months. The U.S. has recently stepped up weapons shipments and has forgiven billions in loans provided to Kyiv. Trump has criticized the billions the Biden administration has spent in supporting Ukraine and has said he could end the war in 24 hours, comments that appear to suggest he would press Ukraine to surrender territory that Russia now occupies. As a co-chairman of the American First Policy Institute’s Center for American Security, Kellogg wrote several of the chapters in the group’s policy book. The book, like the Heritage Foundation’s “Project 2025,” is designed to lay out a Trump national security agenda and avoid the mistakes of 2016 when he entered the White House largely unprepared. Kellogg in April wrote that “bringing the Russia-Ukraine war to a close will require strong, America First leadership to deliver a peace deal and immediately end the hostilities between the two warring parties.” Trump's proposed national security adviser , U.S. Rep. Michael Waltz of Florida, tweeted Wednesday that “Keith has dedicated his life to defending our great country and is committed to bringing the war in Ukraine to a peaceful resolution.” Kellogg featured in multiple Trump investigations dating to his first term. He was among the administration officials who listened in on the July 2019 call between Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy in which Trump prodded his Ukrainian counterpart to pursue investigations into the Bidens. The call, which Kellogg would later say did not raise any concerns on his end, was at the center of the first of two House impeachment cases against Trump, who was acquitted by the Senate both times. On Jan. 6, 2021, hours before pro-Trump rioters stormed the U.S. Capitol, Kellogg, who was then Pence’s national security adviser, listened in on a heated call in which Trump told his vice president to object or delay the certification in Congress of President Joe Biden ’s victory. He later told House investigators that he recalled Trump saying to Pence words to the effect of: “You’re not tough enough to make the call.” Baldor reported from Washington. AP writer Eric Tucker in Washington contributed to this report. Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Get local news delivered to your inbox!Carl Black Chevy Buick GMC in Kennesaw offers valuable research on the new 2025 Chevy Equinox. ATLANTA , Dec. 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Carl Black Chevrolet Buick GMC in Kennesaw is thrilled to announce new insights into the 2025 Chevy Equinox for sale near Atlanta . This small SUV has received a bold redesign, advanced technology updates, and versatile options, including a highly anticipated EV variant. -Redesigned Chevy Equinox Brings Style and Functionality The redesigned Chevy Equinox boasts a sleeker exterior with sharper lines, a reimagined front grille, and stunning LED headlights. These changes not only enhance the SUV's visual appeal but also improve aerodynamics. Inside, drivers and passengers will enjoy a spacious cabin that seamlessly integrates comfort and technology. Moreover, the 2025 Chevy Equinox prioritizes convenience. Features like wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and multiple USB-C ports keep everyone connected. Plus, the hands-free power liftgate simplifies loading and unloading, making the Equinox perfect for busy families and commuters alike. -A Look at the Affordable 2025 Chevy Equinox Price Starting at just $28,600 , the 2025 Chevy Equinox price offers incredible value for its class and standard features. It comes loaded with safety features like lane-keeping assist and automatic emergency braking as standard. Higher trims introduce premium amenities such as leather seating, a panoramic sunroof, and a Bose sound system. Carl Black Kennesaw is especially excited about the upcoming 2025 Chevy Equinox EV , which blends innovation with efficiency. As Chevrolet moves toward a sustainable future, this electric variant stands out as an excellent option for environmentally conscious drivers. -Find the Perfect Chevy Equinox Near Me For those searching for a reliable small SUV, Carl Black Chevrolet Buick GMC in Kennesaw has you covered. Explore their extensive current inventory to find the Chevy Equinox near me that fits your needs. From daily commutes to family road trips, the Equinox is a versatile choice. To learn more, visit the 2025 Chevy Equinox model research page or discover what's new in this impressive, completely redesigned SUV. Experience the future of small SUVs today at Carl Black Kennesaw. - About Carl Black Chevy Buick GMC Carl Black Chevy Buick GMC is a leading auto dealership in Kennesaw, GA that offers a wide selection of new and used vehicles and financing, maintenance, and repair services. Now, we have a widening range of personal and business electric vehicles, as well. The dealership is committed to supplying exceptional customer service and helping customers find the right vehicle for their needs and budget. For more information, visit www.carlblackkennesaw.com . Shoppers may also contact the Georgia dealership by calling 888-457-2417 or visiting the store at 1110 Roberts Road. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/carl-black-kennesaw-unveils-exciting-details-about-the-2025-chevy-equinox-for-sale-near-atlanta-302338594.html SOURCE Carl Black Chevy Buick GMC Kennesaw
DENTON — Lockerman Middle School’s new science, technology, engineering and mathematics center was celebrated on Tuesday for providing students with unique opportunities and STEM-related resources. The STEM Center held a ribbon-cutting Tuesday afternoon with partners from the University of Maryland Medical System. A $500,000 grant was given to the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation, which is funding STEM centers at 10 different schools in Maryland, including Lockerman. Caroline County Public Schools Superintendent Derek Simmons said the foundation’s contribution is bringing unique experiences to Lockerman students. “There’s no way that this level of resource and these tools would be able to get in the hands of our middle school kids if it wasn’t for your partnership and Ripken Foundation’s work,” Simmons said. On Tuesday, students showed off the new tools and gadgets that were funded by the grant, such as a 3D printer, coding robots and electronic kits. In the school cafeteria, two students flew drones. Sixth grader Gracie Spiering showed off her knowledge of how to make backpack security alarms or model cars using littleBits Electronic kits. She knew how to order the kit’s pieces and wires, and learned how the coding worked. “It’s been so much fun to have in class,” Spiering said. “Everybody’s been so ready to come into that class.” Meanwhile, many students have been utilizing the 3D printers to make ornaments for the holidays. Seventh grader Madison Watson said it’s been a smooth learning process thanks to the help of her teachers. “It’s pretty fun to have them just at any time we really want them to be here,” Watson said. Lockerman Middle School Principal Jeannine Necessary said students love learning how to use the new materials. Staff members were trained and encouraged to integrate the STEM tools into everyday learning, the principal said. During the ribbon-cutting, University of Maryland Shore Regional Health President and CEO Ken Kozel said the healthcare system appreciates students involved in STEM because the students are “highly motivated and educated.” “We’re here to promote STEM because it’s such an important part of the healthcare system,” Kozel said. “We’re local, we’re small, we’re a community hospital system, but we need our community to help support our workforce needs.” With a handful of students excited to show off the new technology on Tuesday, Simmons reflected on how much the grant means to the Denton middle school, given the district’s financial challenges. “About 60 to 65 percent of our students qualify for free and reduced meals, which puts a little bit different lens on the opportunities that our kids have to access things,” Simmons said. “It also puts a lens on the opportunity the school system has funding-wise to be able to provide those avenues. “We are thrilled that we were selected by you guys, in partnership with the Ripken Foundation, to be able to provide opportunity and access that we could’ve never funded for our students.”
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