Sr. Ilia Delio on AI, Evolution, and Who We’re Becoming
Sr. Ilia Delio, OSF, joins Peter and Mercedes for a conversation that weaves theology, science, and technology into a hopeful and challenging vision for the future. Drawing on Teilhard de Chardin’s evolutionary theology, she invites us to see AI not merely as a tool but as part of the unfolding of creation itself. Together, they explore what it means to become more whole, more relational, and more deeply rooted in divine love in an age shaped by artificial intelligence.
Topics Covered:
- AI as human augmentation and biological extension
- The theology of Teilhard de Chardin and cosmic evolution
- The Adamic myth and how it influences modern perspectives on technology
- AI, collective consciousness, and global interconnectedness
- The ethical implications of AI in a capitalist system
- Defining personhood in an evolutionary worldview
- Moving from categorical to networked thinking in younger generations
- Developing spiritual practices alongside technological advancement
- Living from our God-centered being while engaging AI
Resources Mentioned:
- Ilia Delio, Re-enchanting the Earth
- Ilia Delio, Integral Ecology in an Age of AI
- Teilhard de Chardin
- David Noble, The Religion of Technology
- Catherine Hales, How We Became Posthuman
- Erich Jantsch, The Self-Organizing Universe: Scientific and Human Implications of the Emerging Paradigm of Evolution
- (00:08) - Does AI enhance or diminish face-to-face connection?
- (00:17) - Cultivating a mindset that feels at home with AI
- (00:34) - Teilhard: Humanity has a “God problem” with AI
- (00:35) - David Noble: AI is enhancing human function and capacity
- (00:42) - Peter Singer: AI might help us recover broader moral thinking
- (00:44) - Mercedes: Complexity is driving today’s evolution
- (00:50) - Teilhard: Love is at the heart of all cosmic life
- (00:55) - What are we living into in this moment of AI development?
- (00:56) - A critique of AI based on the social media era
- (00:56) - Reflections from the Episcopal Church’s AI ethics task force
Creators and Guests
Host
The Rev. Mercedes Clements
With a unique blend of expertise in technology and ministry, Mercedes Clements brings a forward-thinking approach to her work in the Church. Before entering ordained ministry, Mercedes built a successful career in IT management, strategic systems design, and compliance. Now serving as an Episcopal priest, she draws on her technical background to explore innovative ways technology, including AI, can support and enhance ministry. As the co-host of the AI Church Toolkit Podcast, Mercedes combines her passion for faith, systems thinking, and collaboration to equip church leaders with practical tools for navigating the evolving digital landscape while staying rooted in the mission of the Church.
Host
The Rev. Peter Levenstrong
Peter Levenstrong is the Associate Rector at St. Gregory of Nyssa Episcopal Church in San Francisco, a vibrant congregation known for its liturgical creativity, intergenerational worship, and radical hospitality. With a passion for blending ancient traditions with innovative practices, Peter is dedicated to helping church leaders navigate the complexities of ministry in the digital age. As a co-host of the AI Church Toolkit Podcast, Peter believes in the opportunities created by AI to deepen, not replace, human relationships. His other projects include Living Stories Sermons, a participatory preaching model that is all about human connection and communion; yet much of the content is made possible by the use of AI. Grounded in his commitment to community and inclusion, Peter believes that when thoughtfully applied, technology can deepen relationships and expand the Church’s mission in transformative ways.
