Orthodox hierarchs discussed the challenges of artificial intelligence at a conference in Greece

The Theologia magazine of the Holy Synod of the Hellenic Church opened its scientific conference in Thessaloniki, dedicated to the interaction between theology, society and technology in the modern age. The key theme of the event, which brought together five Primate of the Orthodox Churches, was the challenges posed by the development of artificial intelligence and digital transformation.

Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople, Patriarch Daniel of Bulgaria, Archbishop Hieronymos of Athens and All Hellas, Archbishop George of Cyprus and Archbishop Anastasios of Albania, as well as hierarchs representing other Local Churches took part in the conference. The event will last several days and is intended to demonstrate how Orthodoxy can creatively engage in dialog with science and technology without abandoning its role as spiritual guide.

In his welcoming remarks, Patriarch Bartholomew emphasized that theology must convey “the message of the Gospel in its entirety,” adapting to modern conditions but without changing its essence. “Never in history has humanity experienced such a radical upheaval in its way of life as in our time. Technology is redefining politics, art, personal relationships and our daily lives,” he noted. The patriarch also warned against fundamentalism born out of fear of rapid change and emphasized that “no technology can give real meaning to life.”

Greek President Konstantinos Tasoulas, in his remarks, noted the potential of theology in public dialog about technology. He questioned whether technology will become a tool for unification or a factor of isolation and dependence. “Artificial intelligence is devoid of choice and experience, it cannot make sense of the world, only process it. However, we are not demonizing it. It is a supreme achievement and we expect it to serve the good through a fruitful dialog between theology and technology,” the president said.

Archbishop Hieronymos of Athens pointed out that technology is not neutral but carries certain values. “Technology is not a mere tool; it carries with it the way we understand the world. Even when we use it for good, it teaches us to see people and society through the lens of speed and efficiency,” he said. He said there is a danger of downplaying the human element as technology replaces experience with image. “Man is not a machine or a product; he is the image of God. The measure is always man,” the archbishop concluded.

Recall, recently in the European Parliament held hearings on the influence of the Russian Orthodox Church, during which there wereaccusations against the ROC in the conduct of hybrid warfare and espionage, as well as calls for the expulsion of its clergy from the EU countries. At a meeting of the European Shield for Democracy Commission, a heated debate broke out between supporters of tough measures and MPs who spoke in defense of Orthodoxy.