A surprising number of Americans use AI for spiritual reasons. Here’s what they told us

A new poll shows that 11 % of people who use artificial intelligence have turned to the technology for spiritual guidance, 13 % have used it to generate prayers, and 15 % have used it to study religious texts. The survey, released by the Religion News Service and reported by NPR, drew responses from more than 1,200 U.S. adults who regularly interact with AI tools such as chatbots and voice assistants. The findings suggest that a significant slice of the tech‑savvy population is turning to digital assistants for matters of faith, a trend that is reshaping the intersection of religion and technology.

The rise of AI has made sophisticated conversational agents a part of everyday life, from scheduling appointments to drafting emails. As people increasingly rely on these tools for practical tasks, many are also experimenting with them for personal support. Religious leaders have noted a growing interest in using AI to reach younger audiences and to provide on‑demand spiritual counsel. The poll’s data reflect a broader shift toward digital spirituality, where believers seek guidance outside traditional church settings, especially in a post‑pandemic era that has accelerated remote engagement.

The numbers are striking when compared to previous surveys on technology use in faith contexts. For instance, only 5 % of respondents in a 2018 study reported using digital tools for prayer or scripture study. The current figures point to a rapid adoption curve. Some faith communities are already piloting AI chatbots that offer scripture explanations or help users compose prayers. However, religious scholars caution that AI can misinterpret doctrine or spread doctrinal errors if not carefully monitored. The technology’s ability to generate personalized content raises questions about authenticity and the role of human pastoral care.

Looking ahead, churches and faith organizations are likely to explore AI as a complement to traditional ministry. Pilots are underway in several denominations to use chatbots for counseling and scripture study, while scholars are calling for guidelines on theological accuracy. At the same time, regulators may consider oversight to prevent misinformation in religious contexts. As AI becomes more entrenched in everyday life, its influence on spiritual practice will continue to grow, prompting both opportunity and debate about how faith communities navigate this new digital frontier.