Sacred Spaces in the Digital Age: Perceptions of Lutheran Christian Priests on Augmented Reality at Holy Sites

Samuli Laato, Sampsa Rauti, Anni Maria Laato, Samaan Al‐Msallam, Sangwon Jung, Erkki Sutinen, Juho Hamari

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference proceedingConference contributionScientificpeer-review

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Abstract

The concepts of sacred places and spaces appear throughout religions globally. Places such as churches, cathedrals, temples, mosques, synagogues and graveyards are given special meanings, both functionally and spiritually, and separated from the ordinary. Recently location-based augmented reality (AR) technologies and applications have become widespread, and this raises questions regarding how AR content relates to sacred places. In this study, we approached this complex topic by asking clergy of the Lutheran Christian Church (N=47) to reflect on associated phenomena. We approached the data via reflexive thematic analysis and uncovered tensions related to (1) connected vs detached from sacredness; (2) supporting the spiritual purpose of the space vs conflicting with it; and (3) maintaining tradition vs embracing innovation. Overall, our findings suggest that AR technologies and products impact sacred spaces on multiple levels, but currently there is no consensus among the clergy on the impact of these changes.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationIMX 2024 - Proceedings of the 2024 ACM International Conference on Interactive Media Experiences
PublisherACM
Pages256-267
ISBN (Electronic)9798400705038
ISBN (Print)9798400705038, 9798400705038, 9798400705038, 979-8-4007-0503-8
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 7 Jun 2024
MoE publication typeA4 Article in a conference publication
EventIMX '24: 2024 ACM International Conference on Interactive Media Experiences - Stockholm, Sweden
Duration: 12 Jun 202414 Jun 2024

Publication series

NameIMX 2024 - Proceedings of the 2024 ACM International Conference on Interactive Media Experiences

Conference

ConferenceIMX '24: 2024 ACM International Conference on Interactive Media Experiences
Country/TerritorySweden
CityStockholm
Period12/06/2414/06/24

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