Peter’s Chapel in Lucerne, known as the city's oldest church, explored innovation with an AI-powered Jesus capable of conversing in 100 languages. The project, Deus in Machina, was part of a collaboration with a university research lab focused on immersive reality technologies. The AI, trained in theological texts, was installed in the church’s confessional booth, allowing people to engage in dialogues with a virtual Jesus. Visitors were cautioned against sharing personal information, knowing these were not confessions. During the two-month experiment, over 1, 000 people, including international visitors, engaged with the avatar. Feedback from 230 users showed that two-thirds considered it a spiritual experience, although others found the interactions superficial or cliché.

The AI's responses varied, sometimes inspiring, other times lacking depth. The experiment faced internal criticism, particularly regarding the use of the confessional and religious imagery. Schmid, a theologian involved with the project, highlighted the risk of the AI offering inappropriate advice, although no major issues arose. Despite this, the experiment will not become permanent due to the inherent responsibility. Schmid recognized the potential for AI as a tool to discuss religion and Christian faith, noting increased interest in conversations that extend beyond traditional religious practices. The experiment revealed a desire among people to engage directly with spiritual figures like Jesus.