The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has introduced an AI-powered search assistant in its General Handbook. Available in multiple languages, this assistant helps users find information and summaries, while encouraging verification of AI responses. Church leaders emphasize principles of transparency, privacy, and accountability in leveraging modern technology. Updates to the handbook were also launched alongside this feature.
The General Handbook of Instructions for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints now features an AI-powered search assistant, enhancing users’ experience by helping them navigate the handbook for answers to their inquiries. This online resource, overseen by the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, is vital for church leaders and members alike, offering vital policies and guidelines.
The AI assistant assists users by analyzing their questions and summarizing relevant information. However, users are encouraged to verify these AI-generated responses through the provided links. You can access this helpful tool through the Gospel Library app (version 7.2) or on ChurchofJesusChrist.org.
You can find the search assistant button conveniently located at the bottom right of the screen on the handbook content page. Once clicked, users receive summarized answers and helpful links that deepen their understanding of church policies. This feature is available for users signed in with a Church account, accessible in English, French, Portuguese, or Spanish.
Alongside this innovation, the church confirmed updates to the General Handbook as a part of this launch, focusing on enhancing the handbook’s accuracy and relevance (click here for more information on the updates).
Church leaders have long discussed both the benefits and challenges presented by modern technology. Elder Gerrit W. Gong emphasized the need for thoughtful evaluation in using AI as a tool to support ongoing Church efforts, stating that emerging technologies help spread the gospel across various nations.
In a recent presentation, Elder Gong outlined seven guiding principles for leveraging AI within the Church. These principles, sanctioned by Church leadership, focus on maintaining spiritual connections, ensuring transparency, protecting privacy and security, and enforcing accountability. The Church aims to encourage positive interactions with AI while safeguarding personal information and aligning with its core values.
The integration of an AI-powered search assistant in the General Handbook of Instructions marks a significant step for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, streamlining access to essential teachings and policies. As users engage with this new technology, the Church emphasizes the importance of ensuring privacy, transparency, and spiritual integrity. With careful guidance from leadership, AI is positioned not just as a tool, but as a means to further enrich faith and understanding within the community.
Original Source: www.thechurchnews.com
