Church in the Metaverse: Religious Leaders Debate the Role of Technology in Faith

Religious leaders engage in a nuanced debate over the integration of virtual technologies, including the metaverse, into religious practices. While some, like Hindu Professor Sreevas Sahasranamam, envision the metaverse as a platform for immersive spiritual experiences and meditation aids, others, such as theologians Gavin Ortlund and Jay Kim, express reservations, emphasising the importance of physical presence in religious rituals like baptism and communion. Pope Francis, while acknowledging the potential benefits of technology, warns against its unchecked advancement, advocating for a balanced approach that safeguards against societal inequalities and moral pitfalls.