The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has introduced an update to its “General Handbook,” incorporating guidance on the use of artificial intelligence (AI). Published on December 16, 2025, the updated handbook underscores that AI “cannot replace the gift of divine inspiration or the individual work required to receive it.” It emphasizes that interactions with AI should not supplant meaningful relationships with God and others, highlighting the importance of spiritual connections.
The importance of aligning with the example of Jesus Christ is central to this guidance. The handbook notes, “Jesus Christ taught with power and authority. He sought divine direction from His Father. He relied on the scriptures and prayer. He lived and taught only those things He learned from His Father.” This principle serves as a foundation for how members of the Church are encouraged to engage with AI technology.
To assist members in the appropriate use of AI within Church assignments, the handbook outlines several key principles. Firstly, if members choose to use AI, it should be in ways that are positive, helpful, and uplifting, consistent with the Church’s integrity and teachings. While AI can support tasks such as research and editing, it cannot replace the spiritual guidance necessary to prepare inspired teachings or prayers. Furthermore, Church leaders are advised against relying on AI for sensitive advice, such as medical or legal matters, recommending that members consult qualified professionals for such guidance. Additionally, the handbook stresses the importance of safeguarding sensitive information, advising against the input of confidential Church records into non-Church managed AI tools.
This emphasis on responsible AI use has been reiterated by Church leaders over the past two years. In a January 2024 address to students at Brigham Young University (BYU), Elder David A. Bednar articulated that AI can serve both beneficial and detrimental purposes, depending on its application. He urged students to utilize AI in ways that strengthen their moral agency, cautioning against shortcuts that might undermine spiritual growth.
Elder Bednar’s teachings included a call for members to “humbly and prayerfully” identify gospel principles that can guide their use of AI. He emphasized the necessity of seeking the companionship of the Holy Ghost and the spiritual gift of revelation amidst technological advancements, which he described as part of the Lord’s efforts to hasten His work in the latter days.
Further addressing the topic, Elder Gerrit W. Gong has delivered multiple messages focused on AI. In a March 2024 address to Church employees, he introduced guiding principles for AI use, reiterating the need to prioritize seeking wisdom from God. Elder Gong maintained that AI should enhance, not replace, connections with the divine, stating, “Artificial intelligence is not God and cannot be God.” He emphasized the responsibility of individuals to ensure that AI-generated content aligns with spiritual truths, asserting that it cannot generate truth from God.
At a summit in Vatican City in October 2025, where leaders from faith, thought, and technology convened to discuss AI ethics, Elder Gong reiterated the importance of a Faith and Ethics AI Evaluation. He asserted that accurately portraying faith traditions is essential as more individuals turn to AI for information about faith and belief systems. “It is a public necessity,” he noted, highlighting the increasing reliance on AI as a primary information source.
Latter-day Saints are encouraged to review the updated handbook and teachings from Church leaders regarding AI as they navigate this evolving landscape. The guidance serves as a reminder of the necessity to balance technological advancements with spiritual integrity and moral principles.
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