«Our attitude toward Artificial Intelligence should be characterized by neither fear nor uncritical enthusiasm. Our Church would do well to remind the modern world that not everything can be calculated and that not everything that seems or sounds intelligent possesses true wisdom.» Archbishop Elpidophoros of America made these remarks during the annual academic gathering of the Hellenic College of the Holy Cross Theological Schoolat the Malliotis Cultural Center in Boston.
The Archbishop of America welcomed the largest class in the school’s history and emphasized that the true purpose of education is not limited to the transmission of information, but is primarily concerned with the formation of the person. He urged the students to make use of new technologies and learn from them, without, however, allowing them to take over the work and personal effort that is their responsibility. «One,» he noted, “technology can compose the words of a prayer but cannot pray itself,” while emphasizing to them the uniqueness and value of the human person, who is a living image of the living God.
For his part, the interim president of the educational institutions, Father Michael Lambakis, called on the students to view the academic year as an opportunity for daily spiritual growth and for striving to become more like Christ by reflecting His presence in their lives anddeeds.
The dean of the Greek college, Dr. Nicholas Ganson, called on students to support one another and to seek help and guidance from faculty and administrative staff when they face difficulties.
Finally, the dean of the School of Theology of the Holy Cross, Fr. Eugene Pendioutz, emphasized the difference between the knowledge we can carry in our pockets and the wisdom we lack, while noting that true education requires the self-giving of our very selves through thought, action, work, compassion, time, service, and love for our fellow human beings.
