Human-Centered Digital Catechesis in Multicultural Contexts An Integrative Framework for Catholic Faith Formation

Abstract

Digital platforms and generative artificial intelligence reshape the conditions under which Catholic faith formation is received, interpreted, and practiced. This conceptual theological study asks how digital catechesis can be held accountable to human and ecclesial flourishing in multicultural settings. Through an integrative review of Catholic theological anthropology, catechetical theory, digital religion, the capability approach, dialogical education, participatory design, and human-centered AI, it develops a three-level framework linking a normative account of the person, formative practices, and institutional conditions. The framework identifies four practices—interpretive encounter, dialogical inquiry, mediated-embodied continuity, and critical cultural translation and four institutional requirements: answerable authority, capability floors, data and algorithmic stewardship, and reflexive evaluation. It argues that human-centeredness cannot be reduced to usability, personalization, or engagement. AI may support access, translation, analysis, and routine learning, but it cannot replace sacramental participation, pastoral responsibility, embodied witness, or contextual empathy. The proper evaluative question is whether participants gain a real and responsible freedom to understand, question, answer, belong, and act in faith. Seven research propositions indicate how the framework can be tested across parishes, schools, dioceses, and networked communities.