The Loyola Institute for Ministry has been awarded a planning grant through the Lilly Endowment's Growing in Faith in the Age of Artificial Intelligence Initiative (Faith and AI Initiative), an invitational program designed to help youth and young adults engage questions of faith in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

According to Lilly Endowment, the initiative seeks to help young people "draw on the wisdom of Christian traditions and engage in spiritual practices to navigate the complexities of digital technologies, especially Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications, enhance their overall well-being and deepen their faith." Through this planning grant, LIM will explore innovative approaches to faith formation that address the opportunities and challenges posed by artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies.

The award aligns closely with LIM's mission of preparing leaders for ministry through integrated theological reflection, practical application, and a commitment to serving the needs of the Church and society. For decades, LIM has equipped pastoral ministers, educators, and faith leaders to respond thoughtfully to contemporary realities while remaining grounded in the Catholic and Ignatian traditions. As artificial intelligence increasingly shapes how people learn, communicate, form relationships, and seek meaning, the institute recognizes the importance of helping youth and young adults discern how faith can guide their engagement with these technologies.

The planning grant will support a period of listening, research, and collaboration as LIM develops a vision for helping youth and young adults navigate the ethical, spiritual, and relational dimensions of AI. Drawing on Loyola University's Jesuit commitment to educating the whole person and promoting critical reflection, the project will explore ways to foster digital wisdom, spiritual resilience, and faithful discernment in an age of technological transformation.