Spiritual Renewal: Macau Clergy Monthly Recollection Exploring the Influence of AI

MACAU — On September 2, 2026, local clergy and seminarians gathered at St. Joseph’s Seminary Chapel for their monthly recollection, focusing on spiritual renewal amidst the rapidly growing influence of artificial intelligence.

The gathering was attended by Bishop Stephen Lee, alongside 28 priests, 6 seminarians from the Dioceses of East Timor, and 2 seminarians from the Diocese of Macau.

Fr. Jijo Kandamkulathy, CMF, led the spiritual reflection with a keynote address titled "The Crisis of Synthetic Intimacy." Exploring the profound impact of AI on modern society, his talk challenged the clergy to formulate a grounded spiritual and pastoral response to an era defined by artificial connections. He emphasized the urgent need to protect authentic human relationships, foster pastoral empathy, and maintain genuine intimacy with God and community as technological isolation becomes more prevalent.

The morning of fellowship and prayer commenced with Eucharistic Adoration at 10:00 AM, leading into Fr. Kandamkulathy’s reflection at 11:00 AM. The participants then united for Midday Prayer at 12:00 PM before sharing a fraternal lunch, concluding a fruitful session dedicated to navigating the future of pastoral ministry.