U.S. startup launches $2-per-minute AI “Jesus” video chat service
A neural-network image of Jesus Christ in a digital environment. Photo: open sources
On April 14, 2026, the U.S.-based company Just Like Me launched a service offering video calls with an AI “Jesus” at a price of $1.99 per minute, according to Vice report.
The platform enables users to interact with a generated image of Christ, ask questions, and receive “advice.” Developers say the system has been trained on the Bible and sermons, and can also remember previous conversations with individual users.
Visually, the AI avatar is modeled after Jonathan Roumie, known for his role as Jesus in the TV series The Chosen. During conversations, the avatar mimics facial expressions and speech pauses and can respond in multiple languages.
At the same time, the company stresses that the generated figure “is not Jesus Christ himself, nor does it possess divine authority,” and cannot replace faith, clergy, or Scripture.
Despite such disclaimers, the launch has drawn criticism. Social media users have argued that such services substitute living faith with technological surrogates. “This is evil. You can talk to the real Jesus for free whenever you want,” one commenter wrote.
Critics also point to the commercialization of religious themes and the potential for fostering emotional dependence on a digital persona. According to company head Chris Brida, users may “form attachments” to the AI, raising additional ethical concerns.
Experts note that such products reflect a broader trend of applying artificial intelligence in religious contexts – from “digital gurus” to chatbot-style spiritual advisers.
At the same time, many Christian developers emphasize the fundamental limits of such technologies. “AI cannot pray for you, because the AI is not alive,” critics say.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that a study by Barna Group found that one-third of American Christians believe AI can offer advice as reliable as that of a pastor.
Read also
SBU told Phanar many UOC bishops would join OCU in 2018, report says
According to a Phanar representative’s account, Ukrainian security services told the Constantinople delegation that many UOC representatives were prepared to attend the OCU’s “Unification Council.” In the end, only two did.
Catholic cardinal visits Ukrainian POWs during trip to Russia
During three days of consultations in Moscow, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi discussed prospects for ending the war in Ukraine.
Ukrainians help restore Serbian Orthodox church in Paris
Orthodox Ukrainians have become regular parishioners of St. Sava Church in Paris and have taken part in its restoration.
Bulgarian Church clergy and laity oppose Phanar head’s visit
More than 2,000 clergy and laity have called for the Ecumenical Patriarch’s visit to be canceled, citing disagreement with his actions and concerns that the visit could legitimize schism.
Unknown intruders break down doors at two UOC churches in Sloviansk
Archbishop Paisiy said OCU activists are suspected of breaking into the churches in Sloviansk, and police have launched an investigation.
Sviatohirsk Lavra prays for murdered monk on 40th day after death
The brethren of the Sviatohirsk Lavra held a memorial service for murdered Monk Varsonofiy, calling on the faithful to pray for the newly departed monk.