“You Are Witnesses of Christ, Not Mere Conveyors of Information”A Pastoral Gathering for Catechism Teachers in Ankawa – Erbil
Catechism teachers from the Chaldean parishes of Ankawa gathered on the evening of Friday, August 1, 2025, at the Catholic University in Erbil for a pastoral meeting attended by His Excellency Archbishop Bashar Matti Warda, under the theme: “Christian Education in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Between Tool and Presence.”
At the beginning of the gathering, Archbishop Warda addressed the participants with a heartfelt and fatherly message of gratitude and affection, saying:
“On behalf of the Church, I greet you and thank you from the bottom of my heart. You are living witnesses to Christ’s presence in the heart of this generation. You do not simply teach—you love, plant hope, and accompany with patience and care. That in itself is a deep act of evangelization.”
He emphasized that catechism is not a task to be completed, but a calling to be lived—a mission that starts from the heart and becomes a testimony of life.
“Every hour spent by a catechist preparing or engaging with students is a participation in Jesus’ commandment: ‘Go and make disciples of all nations’ (Matthew 28:19).”
Archbishop Warda then turned to the main topic, speaking about the profound transformation artificial intelligence has brought to the lives of younger generations.
“We are living in unprecedented times. Our phones suggest words before we speak them, and apps tell us what we need before we ask. Even in spiritual conversations, algorithms loom in the background.”
He stressed that while AI can be a tool of grace when used wisely, it can never replace the loving, human presence:
“Machines can organize and suggest, but they do not love, forgive, or listen. You, however, offer your hearts. You educate through faith, not just information.”
He added:
“The Christian teacher is not a data transmitter, but a Gospel witness. Machines may structure lessons, but you plant seeds in hearts. That is the difference between a tool and a shepherd.”
His Excellency encouraged creativity in teaching methods and the wise use of modern tools, stating:
“Today’s generation doesn’t want to just hear; they want to see, experience, and participate. Theater, drawings, dialogue, videos—all these can serve the Gospel when used well.”
He urged teachers:
“Let our goal always be that the child sees the face of Jesus in the teacher—not just His words.”
Archbishop Warda concluded his address by assuring the Church’s support for its catechists—walking with them, listening to them, and providing training, encouragement, and educational resources.
“You are not alone. The door is always open. Your journey is the Church’s journey, and your concerns are hers as well.”
He left them with a message of hope:
“The Lord did not send a machine; He sent a person—Jesus, the face of the Father and Shepherd of hearts. Let us also be a living presence—one that listens, loves, and blesses.”
The evening ended with a fellowship dinner, where heartfelt conversations mixed with laughter, memories, and new plans. The meal was a true reflection of what unites this teaching community: love, service, and partnership in carrying the light of the Gospel.
In an age of advancing technology and tempting tools, the human being remains the most vital vessel of faith.
A teacher who loves and walks alongside others is the greatest witness one can offer the new generation.
And the Church, as mother and teacher, remains with them—listening, guiding, and blessing.
