Chanda, Armstrong
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Church and Youth Resilience to Substance Abuse: Assessing Church Responses, Challenges and Gaps Chanda, Armstrong
Al-Albab Vol 14, No 1 (2025)
Publisher : Pascasarjana IAIN Pontianak

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.24260/alalbab.v14i1.3539

Abstract

Realising the fundamental role of the church in youth development and social work, the study investigates the responses, challenges and gaps in combating youth substance abuse by the church. It highlights the need for holistic interventions while emphasising the need for mental health resilience. The study employed a qualitative approach, combining document analysis and review of literary materials to assess church and substance abuse among youth, especially cases studied in the Philippines and Kenya. The findings indicate that the church’s interventions in youth substance abuse include moral teachings, awareness raising and support project activities. The study also underscores the importance of family dynamics in developing resilience against substance abuse. The major challenges faced by the church concerning youth substance abuse and promoting resilience include poverty and peer pressure, which hinder the youth’s desire to undergo interventions. Moreover, cultural stigma and denial from the parents or guardians block the youth from seeking help. Cultural belief systems also disrupt family connections, further underlining the need for robust support systems. An enormous gulf exists between the church and the youth, which undermines any preventative measures that might be undertaken. The research proffers useful pointers for policymakers, church leaders, and social workers regarding the lifestyle aspects that link faith, culture, and youth substance addiction. It recommends that the church customise its approaches to address the specific challenges faced by young people struggling with substance abuse, focusing on health, healing, and resilience, aligning with the challenges faced by different youths and the need for urgent attention.
Religion and technology: ethical implications of integrating artificial intelligence into religious practice and experience Chanda, Armstrong
IJORESH Indonesian Journal of Religion Spirituality and Humanity Vol. 4 No. 1 (2025): Indonesian Journal of Religion, Spirituality, and Humanity
Publisher : Postgraduate Program of State Islamic University (UIN) Salatiga Jl. Lingkar Salatiga Km. 02 Salatiga, Indonesia https://pps.uinsalatiga.ac.id/

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.18326/ijoresh.v4i1.25-54

Abstract

Integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into religious practices offers both significant opportunities and ethical challenges that need to be carefully considered. As AI technologies become more embedded in daily life, their application within spiritual contexts, including Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Islam, raises critical questions about privacy, data security, authenticity, and the commodification of sacred experiences. This study examines the ethical issues raised by AI in religious settings and explores ways to address them. The goal is to create a balanced approach that takes advantage of technology's benefits while respecting religious beliefs. Guided by the ethical framework of Principlism theory, including not harming (non-maleficence), doing good (beneficence), fairness (justice), and freedom (autonomy), the research employs qualitative document analysis and case studies from China, India, and Japan, to explore AI’s role in virtual worship, digital religious education, and personalised spiritual guidance. AI allows for virtual worship services, breaking down physical boundaries as witnessed globally. Its algorithms can analyse religious texts, leading to deeper comprehension. Additionally, it provides tailored guidance, which can enrich spiritual paths. By utilising AI, religious practices can become more engaging and inclusive, especially for diverse populations. The paper concludes that while AI holds transformative potential for enriching religious life, its implementation must be carefully aligned with ethical principles and cultural sensitivities to preserve the integrity and authenticity of diverse religious traditions. Future research should focus on developing ethical AI frameworks through collaboration among theologians, ethicists, and AI developers, and assess their impact on community engagement and spiritual authenticity.