NEWS PROVIDED BY
Catholic Answers
April 23, 2024

SAN DIEGO, April 23, 2024 /Christian Newswire/ -- Catholic Answers, the number-one lay Catholic apostolate of apologetics and evangelization, is excited to announce the release of its new "Father Justin" interactive AI app. This innovative digital application employs the latest artificial intelligence technology to provide users with faithful and educational answers to questions about Catholicism. Seekers may also engage in a back-and-forth interaction to pursue further information with the 3d AI character.

"Our goal with the Father Justin app is to capture the power of large language models—or 'LLMs'—to create an engaging and informative experience for those exploring the Catholic faith," says Chris Costello, director of I.T. at Catholic Answers. "Although this is not a substitute for human interaction with a priest, teacher, or spiritual advisor, we believe it can be a valuable tool to help our users better understand and articulate the teachings of the Catholic faith."

The decision to use a parish priest character was purposeful. "We wanted to convey the spirit and nature of the responses users can expect—authoritative yet approachable, drawing from the deep well of Catholic tradition and teaching," Costello explains. "We believe that the presentation of Father Justin honors real-life priests and the role they play in people's lives, yet we are confident that our users will not mistake the AI for a human being."

The Father Justin app is available now on the Catholic Answers website, catholic.com. Users are encouraged to explore the app, utilize the search feature on the site for additional resources, and seek guidance from their local parish priests or spiritual advisors on serious matters or for further clarification.

For more information visit catholic.com/ai

SOURCE Catholic Answers

CONTACT: Kerry Beck, 619-387-7200, kbeck@catholic.com