How AI Delivers the Vatican's Holy Mass in 60 Languages

From next week, religious followers at the Vatican gathering during a significant anniversary will see AI working from a sacred space for the very first time in history.

It comes as Translated introduces its live translation system, Lara, to St Peter's Basilica, an AI-powered service which works in 60 languages.

This huge innovation in technology means that religious people across the globe will be able to follow the Holy Mass by Pope Leo XIV simply via the internet on their smartphone.

As the Vatican commemorates its 400th anniversary of the Basilica's dedication – with formal celebrations taking place on 18 November – the change marks a significant shift in the way technology can be used to benefit all who attend its Holy Mass.

Who created the technology?

Lara was first developed by Translated in 2024.

Specialist scientist Professor Alexander Waibel has picked up on its further developments for its release in the Vatican.

The introduction of AI into a holy space builds upon a declaration drafted by AI scientists and leaders across the globe, which outlines boundaries and dialogue on how AI can best serve humanity.

This involved a collaboration between Alexander and Marco Trombetti, CEO and Co-Founder of Translated.

Alexander, who has a PhD in Computer Science, says: "Today, we see the possibility to break language barriers in real time, realised in one of the most meaningful settings imaginable.

"At the third World Meeting on Human Fraternity, we recognised mutual human understanding as one of the most significant contributions AI can make to humanity.

"Bringing live translation to St Peter's Basilica is a profound expression of that conviction."

Marco adds: "Language enables meaningful encounters.

"Offering this service within St Peter’s Basilica is a concrete way to place artificial intelligence at the service of listening, participation and understanding.

"We are honoured to contribute, with Lara, to an experience that helps people overcome linguistic barriers and feel truly included in the shared prayer of the church."

How does it work?

To use Lara, attendees of the Holy Mass will be able to scan a QR code at the entrance and designated points within the Basilica to access a dedicated web page providing real-time audio and text translations of the liturgy.

As it functions in a web browser, those who want to use the service would not need to download an app on to their smartphone or use any other equipment.

The live translation system was developed by Translated alongside Carnegie-AI, an AI robotics company originating from a research project at Carnegie Mellon University – where Alexander studied for his PhD.

Bringing religious people together

The first large-scale application of AI translation at the Holy Mass aims for religious followers to gain a deeper understanding, no matter what language they speak.

His Eminence Cardinal Mauro Gambetti, O.F.M. Conv., Archpriest of the Papal Basilica of St Peter in the Vatican, Vicar General of His Holiness for Vatican City and President of the Fabric of Saint Peter, says: "St Peter’s Basilica has, for centuries, welcomed the faithful from every nation and tongue.

"In making available a tool that helps many to understand the words of the liturgy, we wish to serve the mission that defines the centre of the Catholic Church, universal by its very vocation. 

"I am very happy with the collaboration with Translated.

"In this centenary year, we look to the future with prudence and discernment, confident that human ingenuity, when guided by faith, may become an instrument of communion.”