By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
The University of the Southern Caribbean’s School of Theology & Religion (STAR) recently played host to the 11th annual Harold Baptiste Lecture Series, a much-anticipated event that delved into the dynamic interplay between faith and technology. Held on Thursday, February 1, 2024, this year’s theme, “Divine Algorithms?: The Role of AI in shaping Modern Evangelism,” ignited vibrant discussions and profound reflections on the evolving landscape of religious outreach in the digital age.
Dr. Carlos Robles, Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness, Strategic Planning, and Distance Education at the Inter-American Adventist Theological Seminary, delivered a captivating keynote address that explored the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in contemporary evangelism. Dr. Robles emphasized that AI is not merely a passive tool but a pivotal force for change across various domains. His presentation shed light on the groundbreaking advancements in AI, particularly generative AI, which not only facilitates information retrieval but also generates new knowledge, revolutionizing the dissemination of religious teachings.
Drawing from historical precedents, Dr. Robles traced the profound impact of technological innovations on religious dissemination, from the Gutenberg press to the advent of radio, television, and the internet. He highlighted the emergence of the metaverse, a digital realm where religious rituals, such as baptisms, are conducted, underscoring the unprecedented opportunities and ethical considerations posed by AI integration.
Central to Dr. Robles’ presentation was the call for ethical engagement with AI in religious contexts. He emphasized the need for wisdom and discernment in harnessing AI’s potential, cautioning against biases and hallucinations inherent in AI algorithms. Dr. Robles urged attendees to approach AI integration with a mindset of ethical vigilance, ensuring that technological advancements align with Christian values and contribute positively to human flourishing.
Serving as respondent, Dr. LeRoy Hill, Director of the Centre for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL) at the University of West Indies, St. Augustine, offered valuable insights into the pedagogical and ethical dimensions of AI integration. Dr. Hill’s reflections underscored the profound impact of Dr. Robles’ presentation, prompting profound theological reasoning and ethical considerations among attendees.
The Harold Baptiste Lecture Series holds a special place within the USC community, honoring the enduring legacy of Pastor Harold and Shirley Baptiste, whose commitment to ministry continues to inspire. This year’s lecture series provided a platform for meaningful dialogue and exploration of the evolving relationship between faith and technology, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation.
As attendees engaged in thought-provoking discussions surrounding the ethical, theological, and practical implications of AI integration, the event served as a catalyst for advancing knowledge and inspiring positive change. Through the Harold Baptiste Lecture Series, the USC community reaffirmed its commitment to embracing technological advancements while upholding timeless values of compassion, empathy, and community. As the boundaries between technology and spirituality blur, the lecture series remains a beacon of intellectual inquiry and reflection, challenging participants to explore new frontiers in the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment and societal transformation.
