As a catechist, I want to make sure that I deeply understand the truths and facts of our Faith. I usually go to primary sources such as Sacred Scripture and the Catechism. Sometimes, if I want to find an answer quickly, I may use a search engine to help me find resources to understand.

I recently learned about a new resource for learning about and teaching the Catholic Faith called Catholic Text. It is simple to use: you enter questions or search terms, and its AI Assistant (named “Shep”) will draw from Sacred Scripture, the Catechism, encyclicals, and more to give you an organized, clear answer. You can also sign up for their weekly newsletter with AI-generated summaries.

I also got to chat with the creator of Catholic Text, Jonathan Scaccia, via email and ask him some questions about the platform.

1. What is Catholic Text, and who is it for?

Catholic Text is a research and study companion designed especially for Catholics. It brings together Scripture, the Catechism, papal encyclicals, conciliar documents, canon law, the writings of the Church Fathers and saints, and many other trusted Catholic sources in one convenient place. Its purpose isn't to replace the Church or human teachers but to support and encourage a deeper connection with the richness of the Catholic faith. Whether you’re just beginning to explore the Bible or you're a seasoned catechist, priest, deacon, teacher, OCIA leader, or lifelong learner of the faith, this guide is here to help you grow in understanding and faith.

2. What inspired you to create Catholic Text?

I’ve spent my career as a community psychologist building systems that help people find and use evidence more effectively. As a researcher, I know how difficult it can be to sift through thousands of documents to find trustworthy answers. As a Catholic, I realized we face a similar challenge. The Church has over two thousand years plus of wisdom, but it’s spread across countless documents that many people don’t know how to access. People often end up searching the internet and receiving incomplete or even inaccurate answers about Catholic teaching. I wanted to build something that lowers that barrier. Rather than replacing study, Catholic Text helps people begin studying. Instead of spending an hour trying to locate the right document, you can begin reading the actual sources in minutes. Ultimately, the mission is simple: help more people encounter the beauty and depth of the Catholic faith.

3. In light of Pope Leo XIV’s recent encyclical on AI, how can Catholics use AI prudently and wisely?

I think Pope Leo’s message is important. AI is a tool, not a substitute for human wisdom, conscience, or a relationship with God. Like any technology, it can be used well or poorly. I think Catholics should approach AI with three principles.

1. First, use it to deepen understanding, not to replace thinking. Let it point you toward Scripture and Church teaching rather than simply accepting every answer at face value.
2. Second, always remain rooted in authentic Catholic sources. AI should encourage us to read the Catechism, the Bible, and the Church’s writings, not become a replacement for them.
3. And third, remember that faith is ultimately lived in community. AI can answer questions, but it cannot administer the sacraments, provide spiritual direction, or replace the wisdom of pastors, mentors, or the life of the Church.

When used with humility and discernment, I believe AI can be another tool for evangelization and formation.

4. How can catechists use Catholic Text to help them in the classroom?

Catechists dedicate a lot of time to preparing lessons, but Catholic Text can make that process both easier and more enriching. For example, if you’;re working on a lesson about the Eucharist, Catholic Text can quickly bring together relevant Scripture passages, Catechism references, writings from the Church Fathers, papal documents, and explanations of complex theological ideas. Instead of flipping through ten books or browsing various websites, everything is conveniently gathered in one place. It also provides helpful answers to those unexpected questions students might ask. These questions that often require searching through multiple sources. Remember, the catechist is still the teacher; Catholic Text is just another supportive resource to help you prepare confidently and effectively.

5. How can parents use Catholic Text to help them learn about the Faith?

Parents play such a vital role as the first teachers of their children in faith. Yet, it’s understandable that many parents can feel overwhelmed or a bit intimidated by complex theological questions. I know my own kids sometimes surprise me with questions that catch me off guard.

Catholic Text offers a comforting space where families can comfortably explore these questions together. Whether your child asks, “Why do Catholics pray to saints”; or “Why do we believe in the Real Presence?” or questions about the Church’s teachings on forgiveness, this resource can be a helpful companion where you and your child can discover trustworthy Catholic sources to explore these topics. I truly love seeing families use it not just to find answers, but as a wonderful way to spark meaningful conversations. It’s a lovely way for parents and children to learn and grow in faith side by side.

6. How can someone get started on Catholic Text?

We hope it’s straightforward. Visit CatholicText.org, sign up, and start asking questions. There’s almost no learning curve. I recommend beginning with a topic you’re genuinely interested in. Ask about a question you’ve always wondered, request an explanation fora challenging Bible passage, or inquire how a Church Father interpreted a specific verse. Curiosity is often the starting point for developing a deeper faith.

7. What makes Catholic Text different from—or similar to—secular AI platforms such as ChatGPT?

The underlying technology shares many similarities, leveraging modern AI to assist users in navigating information. The key difference lies in what we have developed around this core. General-purpose AI systems are trained to answer nearly any question but are not specifically focused on Catholic theology or sources. This requires a degree of sophistication that many people may not have. Catholic Text is purposefully built around the Church’s tradition, emphasizing Catholic sources, citing origins of information, and encouraging direct engagement with Scripture and Church documents.

Essentially, it aims to help users discover the Church’s teachings rather than simply generating personal opinions.

8. What makes Catholic Text different from—or similar to—other Catholic AI platforms?

I’m genuinely excited (seriously) to see more Catholic organizations exploring AI, as I believe this technology holds wonderful potential for evangelization. What sets CatholicText apart is our commitment to research, transparency, and depth. We focus on grounding our answers in primary Catholic sources and making it easy for users to read those original documents themselves. Our goal isn’t to replace study but to make serious learning more accessible. Ultimately, I hope Catholic Text helps people spend less time searching and more time praying, reading, and learning so they can deepen their faith and understanding.

9. Is there anything else you would like to share about Catholic Text?

Catholic Text is not fundamentally about artificial intelligence. It is meant to assist people in experiencing Christ through the wisdom of His Church. While technology evolves every few years, the Gospel remains constant. If AI can eliminate some obstacles that hinder people from exploring Scripture, the Catechism, or the richness of the Catholic tradition, then it is a valuable tool if used responsibly. Ultimately, if Catholic Text helps even one person deepen their faith, reconnect with the sacraments, or draw closer to Christ, we have achieved our goal.