Catholic Institute of Technology at The Builders AI Forum

Faculty at CatholicTech are interested in the sustainable development of technology in accordance with ethical principles based on the teachings of the Catholic faith. Alexis Haughey—Co-founder and Vice President of Research at CatholicTech—and Fr. Michael Baggot—Professor of Theology and Bioethics at Catholic Institute of Technology—both had the opportunity to discuss this topic at The Builders Artificial Intelligence Forum (BAIF), which was hosted by the Pontificia Università Gregoriana at the Casina Pio IV in Vatican City from October 24-25, 2024. 

Alexis Haughey addressed the conference in a discussion panel entitled, “Benefits and Perils of AI for the Church.” The panel members explored the potential benefits and risks associated with the Church’s involvement in the development of AI—such as its ability to support theological research, evangelization, and pastoral care on one hand, and the possible threat AI poses for human dignity, freedom, and integrity on the other.  

Fr. Michael Baggot gave several addresses, including a presentation on why the Catholic Church needs to take a leading role in the development and ethical guidance of Artificial Intelligence. Fr. Baggot also participated in a panel discussion entitled, “Why the Church Needs More Techno-Philosophers & Theologians,” which dealt with the need in the Catholic Church for bright minds that understand how to bridge the gap between Faith and emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence.

Also in attendance were Alessandro DiSanto—Board Member at CatholicTech and Co-Founder at Hallow—and Vincent Mastrangelo, a generous supporter of the Institute. CatholicTech is grateful that its faculty, staff, and contributors have such a determined interest in the role the Church plays in the world of rapidly advancing technology. We look forward to future conferences, both in Italy and beyond, that foster hope for technological growth informed by ethical principles grounded in the Faith.