Religious programming has always been a significant part of radio and television broadcasts, but as technology advances, religious practitioners are now turning to new mediums such as the metaverse, Web3, spatial computing, and artificial intelligence to express their faith. However, there are still skeptics who question the use of these technologies in religion, as well as traditional followers who await guidance.
Sreevas Sahasranamam, a Professor at the University of Glasgow, recently highlighted the positive potential of the metaverse for Hindu practitioners. He believes that the immersive qualities of the metaverse, particularly when experienced through virtual reality, can bring individuals closer to the scriptures and stories of their religion. Sahasranamam also suggests that the metaverse can enhance meditation experiences by providing a deeper level of immersion.
Not everyone shares Sahasranamam’s enthusiasm for the metaverse as a religious tool. Gavin Ortlund and Jay Kim, Christian theologians and pastors from the United States, acknowledge that it can complement traditional fellowship but do not see it as a replacement for physical churches. In a recent video discussion, Kim even questioned whether the concept of “church in the metaverse” is contradictory.
The Catholic Church in Rome has taken a different stance, embracing metaverse technologies such as Web3, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and metaverse platforms. However, Pope Francis, the current leader of the Catholic Church, is not entirely supportive of future-facing technologies. He emphasizes the need for a strong moral and legislative framework to address the potential harms of artificial intelligence while acknowledging the benefits of responsible technology usage.
In conclusion, the use of metaverse technologies in religious practices is a topic of debate. While some see its potential for enhancing spiritual experiences and meditation, others question its compatibility with traditional religious practices. The Catholic Church has shown openness to metaverse technologies but also emphasizes the importance of responsible usage.