AI-Enhanced Spiritual Resilience for Youth in Disaster-Prone Areas

Allan Peejay M. Lappay; Carlos L. Babaran Jr.

doi:doi:10.11648/j.hss.20251304.19

Research Article |

| Peer-Reviewed

AI-Enhanced Spiritual Resilience for Youth in Disaster-Prone Areas

Allan Peejay M. Lappay^*

, Carlos L. Babaran Jr.

Published in Humanities and Social Sciences (Volume 13, Issue 4)

Received: 23 June 2025 Accepted: 8 July 2025 Published: 28 July 2025

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Abstract

This study investigates the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing spiritual resilience among youth in disaster-prone areas, focusing on the partner communities of St. Paul University Philippines (SPUP). Given the emotional and spiritual challenges faced by young individuals during calamities, the research utilized a mixed-methods design involving surveys and interviews with 200 randomly selected youth from the provinces of Cagayan and Apayao. Results indicate a high level of spiritual engagement and strong coping strategies among the youth yet reveal only a moderate extent of AI-supported resource utilization. To address this gap, the study introduced the AI-Enhanced Spiritual Resilience (AI-ESR) Framework, which encompasses three key dimensions: Faith Anchors (AI-facilitated prayer and reflection tools), Sacred Havens (digital platforms for communal worship and pastoral counseling), and Empowerment Tools (AI applications for scripture study, ethical discernment, and mental well-being). These components are designed to uphold theological integrity while promoting relational authenticity in virtual faith environments. The study concludes that AI, when guided by sound theological and pastoral principles, can meaningfully support traditional spiritual care. It offers youth accessible and adaptive avenues to deepen their faith and resilience, especially in moments of crisis and uncertainty brought about by disasters.

Published in	Humanities and Social Sciences (Volume 13, Issue 4)
DOI	10.11648/j.hss.20251304.19
Page(s)	364-372
Creative Commons	This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited.
Copyright	Copyright © The Author(s), 2025. Published by Science Publishing Group

Keywords

Artificial Intelligence (AI), Spiritual Resilience, AI-ESR Framework, Faith Anchors, Sacred Spaces, Empowerment Tools, St. Paul University Philippines (SPUP)

1. Introduction

The Philippines, particularly its typhoon-and-earthquake-prone regions, is among the most disaster-vulnerable nations globally. Located along the Pacific Ring of Fire and the Western Pacific typhoon belt, the country regularly experiences severe natural hazards such as typhoons, floods, landslides, and earthquakes

[21]

. Within this high-risk environment are the partner communities of St. Paul University Philippines (SPUP) in the provinces of Cagayan and Apayao, where repeated environmental disruptions affect not only physical infrastructure but also the emotional, social, and spiritual well-being of local populations. Youth in these areas are especially at risk, facing a dual burden: the immediate threats of disaster events and the longer-term psychological and spiritual impacts that follow.

Disaster research in the Philippines has traditionally focused on physical preparedness, emergency response, and infrastructure rehabilitation

[19]

. While these aspects are essential, they often overlook the equally critical domains of psychological resilience and spiritual well-being, particularly among young people. Adolescents and young adults, being at a formative stage in their development, are especially vulnerable to trauma, existential uncertainty, and identity disruption in the wake of disasters

[15]

. Unfortunately, post-disaster interventions rarely offer holistic support that includes spiritual care, thereby leaving a gap in resilience strategies that attend to the inner life and values-based coping mechanisms of youth

[16]

In this context, spiritual resilience emerges as a vital component of disaster recovery and personal growth. Defined as the capacity to sustain hope, meaning, and connection to transcendent beliefs during adversity, spiritual resilience contributes significantly to overall well-being

[26]

. For Filipino youth, spirituality often serves as a stabilizing force amidst chaos, offering both psychological comfort and a framework for meaning-making. It is observed nurturing spiritual resilience among Filipino youth involves engaging their cultural and religious identities, encouraging reflective practices, and creating supportive environments where faith can be actively expressed, even in times of suffering

[24, 14]

As a Catholic educational institution, SPUP plays a critical role in advancing this holistic approach. As a center of integral human formation, it is not only tasked with academic instruction but also with nurturing the moral, emotional, and spiritual development of students. SPUP’s community outreach in disaster-affected regions reinforces its commitment to the Catholic social principles of human dignity, solidarity, and the common good. Through this lens, the university is well-positioned to lead faith-integrated interventions that promote youth resilience in both physical and spiritual dimensions

[9]

Recent advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) present new possibilities for expanding and deepening these efforts. AI technologies can be harnessed to deliver personalized spiritual content, facilitate guided meditation or prayer, and offer empathetic interactions through AI-driven pastoral agents

[10]

. In disaster contexts, where traditional forms of spiritual care may be disrupted, such tools can serve as accessible and consistent sources of encouragement and reflection. Additionally, AI can assist youth in processing trauma by supporting journaling, providing scripture-based counseling, and delivering mood-sensitive spiritual encouragement

[29]

In response to the growing need for innovative, inclusive, and faith-sensitive approaches to youth well-being, especially in disaster-affected communities, this study introduces the AI-Enhanced Spiritual Resilience (AI-ESR) Framework. The framework centers on three interrelated components, Faith Anchors, Sacred Havens, and Empowerment Tools, which collectively aim to guide SPUP in ethically integrating AI into youth spiritual care. These dimensions help youth regain a sense of meaning, control, and connectedness through values-centered digital engagement. However, the adoption of AI must be guided by ethical clarity and pedagogical intention. AI tools should not replace authentic human relationships or religious sacraments but should complement them by supporting holistic faith formation. The adaptability and personalization of AI must reinforce Gospel-centered values such as compassion, hope, and communal solidarity

[22]

. As a Catholic institution embrace technological innovation, careful discernment is required to ensure that such tools align with theological principles and pastoral ethics.

This study explores how AI-based tools can ethically and effectively cultivate spiritual resilience among youth in disaster-prone communities. Anchored in the religious and educational mission of SPUP, the research investigates the potential of AI to support faith-driven recovery and spiritual formation during times of crisis. Ultimately, this study contributes to the broader discourse on digital faith-based resilience strategies, offering insights for Catholic institutions and other stakeholders committed to supporting youth well-being in vulnerable settings.

2. Conceptual Framework

This study is grounded in three interrelated theoretical frameworks leading to the design of the AI-Enhanced Spiritual Resilience (AI-ESR) model. First, Spiritual Resilience Theory

[25]

underscores the critical role of faith, meaning-making, and sacred coping mechanisms in enabling individual, particularly youth, to navigate adversity. Second, Sociotechnical Systems Theory

[23]

emphasizes the need for technologies, such as AI tools, to be developed and deployed in ways that are ethically sound, culturally sensitive, and contextually appropriate for the communities they serve. Third, the Youth-Centric Disaster Risk Reduction Framework

[35]

advocates for the active participation and empowerment of young people in disaster resilience strategies, especially through inclusive, participatory, and technology-driven approaches.

3. Objectives of the Study

This study aimed to assess the participants’

(1) extent of spiritual engagement to determine how they draw upon their faith and spiritual beliefs during times of crisis;

(2) level of coping strategies to manage spiritual challenges caused by recurring natural disasters; and

(3) extent of utilization of AI-supported resources in disaster contexts.

Finally, the study sought to design an AI-Enhanced Spiritual Resilience (AI-ESR) Framework in the integration AI into youth spiritual formation within the context of disasters.

4. Methodology

A mixed-methods research design was employed to comprehensively assess youth spiritual resilience in disaster-prone communities. A 4-point Likert-scale survey was administered to randomly-selected 200 youth aged 18 to 30 residing in mountainous, lowland, coastal, and riverside areas within SPUP’s partner communities in the provinces of Cagayan and Apayao. The survey evaluated three key areas: the extent of participants’ spiritual engagement, their coping strategies in response to disaster-related spiritual challenges, and their utilization of AI-supported resources in such contexts. Interviews were conducted with the participants to gain deeper insights into their experiences with AI tools during crises. Thematic coding was used to analyze qualitative data, while descriptive statistics were applied to the quantitative findings. Ethical considerations were strictly observed, including informed consent, voluntary participation, confidentiality of responses, and the right to withdraw at any stage of the study. Based on the results, the AI-Enhanced Spiritual Resilience (AI-ESR) Framework was developed. It integrates AI into youth spiritual formation in disaster contexts through three interrelated dimensions: Faith Anchors, Sacred Havens, and Empowerment Tools.

5. Results and Discussion

This section presents the findings on the spiritual resilience of youth in disaster-prone communities. The results are organized into three key areas: spiritual engagement, coping mechanisms, and AI utilization in disaster contexts. Responses from the participants’ interview also provided a holistic view of how youth draw upon faith-based resources during crises. The findings reveal both the strengths of traditional spiritual practices and the emerging opportunities and challenges presented by AI-supported tools. These results served as the bases for SPUP in developing the AI-ESR Framework, which integrates technology with theological and pastoral care principles.

5.1. The Participants’ Spiritual Engagement in the Context of Disasters

Table 1. The Extent of Spiritual Engagement During Disasters.

Indicators	Mean	Descriptive Interpretation
I pray to God more often when facing a natural disaster.	3.36	Very Great Extent
I rely on my faith to help me stay strong during disasters.	3.14	Great Extent
I turn to my spiritual beliefs to understand why disasters happen.	3.10	Great Extent
I find peace through religious practices like praying, meditating, or attending services during crises.	3.10	Great Extent
I believe that God or a higher power is present with me during disasters.	3.37	Very Great Extent
I feel more spiritually connected during and after experiencing a disaster.	3.09	Great Extent
I seek comfort by reading sacred texts or listening to spiritual messages when disasters occur.	3.29	Great Extent
I find strength by participating in faith-based activities after a disaster.	3.02	Great Extent
I reflect on my relationship with God or a higher power more deeply during disasters.	3.11	Great Extent
I believe that my spiritual life grows stronger when I go through natural disasters	3.09	Great Extent
Category Mean	3.16	Great Extent

Table 1 presents the extent of spiritual engagement among youth during disasters, with a category mean of 3.16, interpreted as Great Extent. This finding underscores the strong spiritual inclinations of young individuals when confronted with crisis situations. The highest-rated indicators like, believing that God or a higher power is present during disasters and praying to God more often when facing a natural disaster, suggest that for the youth, spirituality serves as both a psychological anchor and a coping mechanism. The data indicate that youth do not simply seek external support but engage in internal spiritual practices such as prayer, reflection, and meditation. Accordingly, religious coping especially prayer and belief in divine presence contributes significantly to spiritual resilience in times of crisis

[20]

. Similarly, Filipino youth turn to their faith traditions not only for comfort but also for meaning-making and strength when facing disasters

[11]

Furthermore, their answers in the discussion reveal the personal and transformative role of faith during crises. One participant shared, “Even when my home was destroyed by the typhoon, I kept praying and felt God was with me. It gave me courage.” Another added, “I didn’t understand why it happened, but reading the Bible helped me find peace.” These testimonies mirror the notion that spiritual engagement is not passive, but rather an active process of seeking peace, strength, and divine companionship. Spiritual engagement during disasters fosters a sense of transcendence and connection to a higher purpose, which, in turn, alleviates fear and anxiety

[31]

. Furthermore, youth who maintain spiritual routines during emergencies report lower levels of psychological distress and greater hope, suggesting a correlation between consistent faith practices and emotional stability during disasters

[5, 28]

The data also indicate that youth spiritual engagement is multifaceted, combining personal prayer, doctrinal belief, and community-based faith activities. Indicators such as reading sacred texts, participating in faith-based activities, and reflecting on one’s relationship with a higher power demonstrate that spiritual engagement involves both individual contemplation and communal expression. These findings support the framework of spiritual resilience which argued that faith engagement offers both cognitive clarity and emotional grounding in the face of traumatic events

[3]

. For SPUP, these insights affirm the importance of nurturing students’ spiritual formation not only in ordinary times but especially in disaster contexts. Programs that integrate spiritual care, guided prayer, and theological reflection into disaster response initiatives reinforce the holistic well-being of youth

[16]

5.2. The Participants’ Coping Mechanism in the Context of Disasters

Table 2. Level of Coping Strategies in Managing Spiritual Challenges Amidst Disasters.

Indicators	Mean	Descriptive Interpretation
I try to stay spiritually strong even when I feel overwhelmed by disasters.	3.26	Very High
I remind myself of my faith values to help me cope during difficult times.	3.29	Very High
I talk to a religious leader or mentor when I feel spiritually lost after a disaster.	3.02	High
I use prayer or meditation to regain spiritual focus when I feel shaken by disasters.	3.29	Very High
I participate in religious or community activities to help myself recover spiritually.	3.17	High
I reflect on the meaning of suffering and faith to find strength during disasters.	3.09	High
I turn to spiritual music, readings, or videos to uplift my spirit during crises.	3.19	High
I choose to trust in God or a higher power when disaster leaves me questioning my beliefs.	3.26	High
I try to help others spiritually or emotionally as a way of strengthening my own faith.	3.11	High
I find ways to continue my spiritual practices even when places of worship are not accessible.	3.26	Very High
Category Mean	3.19	High

Table 2 shows the level of coping strategies in managing spiritual challenges amidst disasters, with a category mean of 3.19, indicating a High level of spiritual coping among youth. Several strategies such as reminding oneself of faith values, using prayer or meditation to regain focus, maintaining trust in a higher power, and continuing spiritual practices even when places of worship are inaccessible are rated as very high. These responses illustrate how youth actively integrate their spiritual beliefs into crisis management. Spiritually-oriented coping mechanisms, particularly those grounded in personal prayer, religious reflection, and cognitive reappraisal, enable individuals to reduce emotional distress and enhance adaptive functioning during crises

[26]

. The consistency of responses in these areas suggests that spiritual coping is not incidental, but a deliberate, resilient behavior pattern for many Filipino youths

[24]

From their interview-responses the findings further reveal how spiritual strategies serve as both emotional lifelines and sources of meaning during adversity. One participant shared, “After the typhoon destroyed our home, I kept praying and listening to worship songs. It helped calm my fear.” Another participant stated, “Even when I couldn’t go to church, I found peace praying alone and watching spiritual videos.” These narratives are aligned with the documentation that Filipino youth often maintain spiritual engagement through alternative channels such as digital devotion, music, and solitary prayer when traditional religious spaces become inaccessible

[11]

. It is also emphasized that spiritual coping frameworks provide existential support, allowing youth to find hope and direction amidst chaos

[3]

. Furthermore, helping others spiritually affirms that communal and altruistic expressions of faith enhance personal resilience and reinforce shared meaning during collective trauma

[37, 15]

These coping strategies reflect a multidimensional model of spiritual resilience, wherein youth combine cognitive, behavioral, emotional, and relational practices to manage disaster-induced challenges. Adolescents in disaster-prone settings often activate their spiritual resilience by blending personal devotion with social and community-based expressions of faith

[32, 13]

. Consulting religious leaders also highlights the role of intergenerational mentorship and spiritual guidance during times of uncertainty. Moreover, the deliberate continuation of spiritual practices despite physical limitations, such as closed churches or damaged communities, described as spiritual continuity, the ongoing engagement with faith that sustains psychological equilibrium during crises

[20]

. For SPUP, these findings stress the importance of fostering spiritual coping skills through faith-integrated disaster preparedness programs, digital pastoral resources, and accessible platforms for guided prayer and reflection.

5.3. The Participants’ Extent of Utilization of AI in the Context of Disasters

Table 3. Extent of Utilization of AI-Supported Resources in Disaster Context.

Indicators	Mean	Descriptive Interpretation
I use AI-based apps (e.g., chatbot counselors, digital rosary) during or after disasters.	3.16	Great Extent
I rely on AI tools to help me reflect or pray when I cannot attend religious gatherings.	2.23	Moderate Extent
I use AI-powered platforms for spiritual support during disasters.	2.25	Moderate Extent
I have accessed spiritual or religious content provided by AI tools during crises.	3.02	Great Extent
I find AI-supported resources helpful in coping with fear, stress, or uncertainty.	2.54	Great Extent
I use AI to receive personalized encouragement or faith-based messages during disasters.	2.17	Moderate Extent
I prefer using AI platforms that offer spiritual or emotional guidance when human support is not available.	2.15	Moderate Extent
I have interacted with AI chatbots or virtual assistants for emotional or spiritual concerns during calamities.	2.12	Moderate Extent
I believe AI-supported tools are effective in helping me stay spiritually connected during disasters.	2.10	Moderate Extent
I am open to exploring more AI tools that support my spiritual and emotional well-being in disaster situations.	3.20	Great Extent
Category Mean	2.49	Moderate Extent

Table 3 shows that the extent of utilization of AI-supported resources in disaster contexts among youth was interpreted as Moderate Extent with a category mean of 2.49. Some indicators show promising results, such as the use of AI-based apps, accessing religious content from AI tools, and openness to exploring new AI tool. Additionally, relying on AI for prayer during non-availability of religious gatherings, interacting with AI chatbots for spiritual concerns, or trusting AI for personalized encouragement reflect hesitancy or limited use of AI tools. This indicates that while youth are open to exploring AI for spiritual support, many still prefer traditional or human-centered forms of spiritual engagement, especially in times of crisis.

Some participants provide further context for this moderate extent of utilization. One of them shared, “I tried a meditation app, but it didn’t really feel spiritual. I needed something more personal.” Another reflected, “Sometimes AI responses feel robotic or generic. I still prefer talking to a priest or my community.” These explained that trust and authenticity are key determinants in the spiritual effectiveness of AI tools

[20]

. Similarly, it emphasized that Filipino youth value the relational and sacramental dimensions of faith, which are not easily replicated by AI systems

[12]

. This tension between technological utility and spiritual intimacy likely accounts for the hesitation to fully embrace AI-supported spiritual platforms, especially in deeply religious contexts like the Philippines

[24]

AI can be effective in simulating compassionate dialogue and delivering timely mental health interventions during disasters

[17]

. However, it is also stressed that cultural compatibility, theological alignment, and ethical frameworks must be carefully embedded in AI tools to earn user trust. Similarly, in cultures like the Philippines that value collectivism, there is a strong focus on shared rituals and relational forms of spirituality, elements that artificial intelligence may struggle to authentically replicate

[18]

. From an educational and pastoral standpoint, this finding implies that SPUP integrates ethical and context-sensitive AI applications into spiritual formation programs for the youth. In doing so, it enhances students’ readiness to utilize with AI-based platforms while preserving the relational and faith-rooted essence of spiritual care in times of disaster

[27]

5.4. AI-Enhanced Spiritual Resilience (AI-ESR) Framework

In response to the growing spiritual needs of youth affected by disasters, SPUP proposes a holistic AI-Enhanced Spiritual Resilience (AI-ESR) Framework centered on youth spiritual formation and supported by three interrelated dimensions: Faith Anchors, Sacred Havens, and Empowerment Tools. This framework is designed to guide the ethical and pedagogical integration of Artificial Intelligence into SPUP’s youth spiritual formation, ensuring that technology strengthens rather than replaces traditional faith experiences. Each dimension is rooted in theology, digital ethics, and resilience values, making them essential components for designing and deploying spiritually responsible AI systems in disaster-prone contexts

[30]

Download: Download full-size image

Figure 1. SPUP’s AI-Enhanced Spiritual Resilience (AI-ESR) Framework.

As shown in Figure 1, the three dimensions, Faith Anchors, Sacred Havens, and Empowerment Tools, form a direct and structured framework for integrating AI into youth spiritual formation in disaster settings. Each dimension targets a specific aspect of spiritual resilience: doctrinal integrity (ethical and theological), sacred presence (digital sanctuaries), and participatory growth (empowerment). These ensure that AI serves not only as a technological tool but also as a spiritually formative, ethically grounded, and psychologically supportive system

[1, 4]

. With disasters becoming more frequent and complex, SPUP applies these AI dimensions to address the shifting spiritual needs of youth facing trauma and uncertainty

[2]

Faith Anchors (Ethical and Theological AI Use)

The Faith Anchors dimension of the AI-ESR Framework emphasizes the importance of grounding AI technologies in Catholic doctrine, pastoral values, and theological ethics. In the context of disasters, where existential questions and spiritual struggles often arise, AI applications must go beyond generic wellness support to offer spiritually congruent responses

[22]

. These include reflections on redemptive suffering, divine providence, solidarity, and mercy, core tenets of Catholic theology

[1]

. By embedding doctrinally guided content into digital tools like chatbot counselors and faith-based mobile apps, this dimension ensures that users are spiritually nourished and guided in times of crisis

[5]

. Theologically-aligned AI interventions can serve as moral compasses for young people as they navigate fear, trauma, and uncertainty.

This approach also demands rigorous ethical and pastoral oversight. Experts caution that without proper safeguards, AI risks becoming spiritually hollow, culturally insensitive, or even harmful particularly for young people who are still developing their religious identity

[20, 38, 26]

. Faith Anchors addresses these concerns by calling for doctrinal filters, digital theology consultations, and spiritual sensitivity standards in the design and deployment of AI tools

[8]

. By ensuring that AI responses reflect the magisterial voice of the Church and uphold pastoral care principles, this dimension upholds theological integrity and user trust. Such oversight is essential for AI tools to serve not just as content delivery systems but as extensions of authentic spiritual mentorship

[6]

SPUP plays a central and proactive role in implementing this dimension by providing theological oversight for all AI-based spiritual content. By working closely with pastoral leaders and digital developers, SPUP assesses faith-based messages, reflections, and responses embedded in AI systems. Additionally, SPUP develops training programs for digital pastoral facilitators to ensure that those engaging youth through AI tools are equipped with both doctrinal understanding and technological fluency

[36]

. The university’s strong grounding in Catholic values ensures that AI tools complement the sacramental and relational nature of spiritual formation

[7]

. By doing so, SPUP safeguards the spiritual integrity of its youth, while embracing innovation for resilient faith development.

Sacred Havens (Digital Spiritual Sanctuaries)

The Sacred Havens dimension highlights the need to create spiritually nourishing and psychologically safe digital spaces for youth, especially when disasters disrupt traditional places of worship. During crises such as typhoons or earthquakes, youth may be displaced, physically isolated, or disconnected from their faith communities

[2]

. In these moments, virtual spiritual sanctuaries, like online rosary platforms, AI-led guided meditations, or digital Eucharistic adoration, serve as accessible channels of spiritual continuity and comfort. These sanctuaries replicate the ambiance of sacred rituals, helping youth maintain emotional stability and a sense of divine presence

[12]

. The goal is not to replace communal worship but to preserve spiritual practices when physical access is compromised.

These AI-enabled digital spaces must be thoughtfully designed to reflect the theological, cultural, and psychological needs of the target users. Studies show that digital faith experiences have the potential to ease anxiety, foster hope, and enhance spiritual resilience

[14, 4, 25]

. They must be inclusive of traditional liturgical elements while being adaptable to different cultural expressions of faith. Elements such as scripture readings, reflective music, customizable prayer prompts, and virtual community forums contribute to building a sacred digital atmosphere. As disasters increase in frequency, Sacred Havens ensure that spiritual practices remain alive, comforting, and accessible regardless of physical limitations

[6]

SPUP implements this dimension by collaborating with institutions to design and maintain digital platforms that simulate sacred environments, ensuring they are culturally resonant and user-friendly, even in geographically isolated communities. Virtual prayer rooms, daily devotion apps, and community-based faith-sharing networks

[13]

are examples of the initiatives rolled out by SPUP. By anchoring these efforts in pastoral care and digital accessibility

[33]

, SPUP fulfills its mission of holistic human formation, offering not only academic support but also spaces of spiritual refuge. In doing so, the university addresses both the emotional and sacred dimensions of disaster recovery for its youth and partner communities.

Empowerment Tools (AI-Driven Resilience Applications)

The Empowerment Tools dimension focuses on the active involvement of youth in their own spiritual and emotional growth through AI-supported applications. Unlike Sacred Havens, which offer sanctuary, this dimension emphasizes activity, encouraging youth to engage with their faith dynamically and personally. AI tools in this category include mood-sensitive scripture reflections, spiritual journaling apps with personalized insights, and gamified challenges promoting virtues like patience, compassion, and hope

[39]

. These tools respond to the emotional tone or behavioral patterns of the user, offering context-aware spiritual support during moments of stress or uncertainty. Youth resilience is reinforced not through passive dependence, but by actively engaging in empowered and participatory coping strategies

[1, 27]

These applications serve as spiritual companions in times of crisis, helping youth stay emotionally regulated and theologically anchored. Interactive features like AI-generated faith affirmations, customizable daily devotionals, and reflection trackers provide youth with tangible ways to process their emotions and reconnect with their beliefs. Such tools can support the development of moral reasoning and foster a deeper sense of divine connection, particularly when traditional support systems are unavailable

[29, 39]

. Empowerment Tools must also be inclusive, offering content in multiple languages and accommodating diverse religious contexts, particularly relevant in multicultural and disaster-prone regions. These tools help youth take ownership of their spiritual journey while ensuring theological alignment and pastoral relevance

[32]

SPUP operationalizes this dimension by leading the design and deployment of AI applications tailored to the emotional and spiritual needs of young users. The university ensures that these tools are doctrinally sound, developmentally appropriate, and contextually meaningful

[22]

. By integrating feedback from students and community youth, SPUP refines these tools to make them more relevant and impactful

[34]

. The emphasis on user participation aligns with the university’s educational philosophy of forming competent, compassionate, and committed individuals. Through Empowerment Tools, SPUP empowers youth not only to survive disasters but to grow in faith, resilience, and moral agency in the face of adversity.

6. Conclusion

This study affirms the integral role of spirituality in youth resilience within disaster-prone communities, highlighting that faith-based coping mechanisms, such as prayer, reflection, and scriptural engagement are consistently utilized by young individuals to navigate trauma and uncertainty. The results reveal a high level of spiritual engagement and coping, indicating that faith remains a cornerstone of emotional stability for Filipino youth during disasters. These practices are rooted in tradition but also reflect deeply personal and transformative responses to crisis. However, despite the strong spiritual grounding observed, the limited but growing use of AI tools suggests both an opportunity and a challenge for faith-based institutions. Youth exhibit cautious openness to digital tools that support spirituality, provided that they advance the authenticity, relational quality, and doctrinal fidelity of their faith practices.

The proposed AI-Enhanced Spiritual Resilience (AI-ESR) Framework, comprising Faith Anchors, Sacred Havens, and Empowerment Tools, offers a timely and holistic model to ethically integrate AI into spiritual care. Rather than replacing traditional pastoral presence, AI can supplement and extend it, especially when physical church access and religious practices are limited. The framework underscores the need for AI systems to be context-sensitive, spiritually grounded, and ethically reviewed to ensure alignment with Catholic values. As disasters become more frequent and complex, SPUP is uniquely positioned to lead in this innovation, combining theological tradition with technological advancement. Through this framework, AI becomes not just a technological intervention but a channel for sustaining hope, meaning, and sacred connection in times of profound vulnerability.

7. Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are proposed to enhance the integration of AI in SPUP’s spiritual resilience initiatives for youth in disaster-prone communities, through the coordinated efforts of key institutional offices:

1) The SPUP Community Development Center (CDC) should integrate the AI-ESR Framework into community disaster programs to support youth spiritual resilience.

2) The Christian Formation Office should develop AI-supported spiritual modules rooted in Catholic teachings for disaster-affected youth.

3) The ICT Unit should create secure, doctrinally sound AI platforms for youth spiritual support.

4) The Advocacy Unit should raise awareness of AI-powered spiritual resilience strategies through campaigns and forums.

5) SPUP Partner-Communities should encourage youth to engage with AI-assisted spiritual resources during disaster recovery.

Abbreviations

AI	Artificial Intelligence
AI-ESR	AI-Enhanced Spiritual Resilience
CDC	Community Development Center
ICT	Information and Communications Technology
SPUP	St. Paul University Philippines

Author Contributions

Allan Peejay M. Lappay: Conceptualization, Supervision, Writing – original draft, Investigation, Formal Analysis, Writing - review & editing.

Carlos L. Babaran, Jr: Software, Methodology, Data Curation, Resources, Visualization, Project administration.

Data Availability Statement

The data supporting the outcome of this research work has been reported in this manuscript.

Funding

This work is not supported by any external funding.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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Lappay, A. P. M., Jr., C. L. B. (2025). AI-Enhanced Spiritual Resilience for Youth in Disaster-Prone Areas. Humanities and Social Sciences, 13(4), 364-372. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.hss.20251304.19

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Lappay, A. P. M.; Jr., C. L. B. AI-Enhanced Spiritual Resilience for Youth in Disaster-Prone Areas. Humanit. Soc. Sci. 2025, 13(4), 364-372. doi: 10.11648/j.hss.20251304.19

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Lappay APM, Jr. CLB. AI-Enhanced Spiritual Resilience for Youth in Disaster-Prone Areas. Humanit Soc Sci. 2025;13(4):364-372. doi: 10.11648/j.hss.20251304.19

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@article{10.11648/j.hss.20251304.19,
  author = {Allan Peejay M. Lappay and Carlos L. Babaran Jr.},
  title = {AI-Enhanced Spiritual Resilience for Youth in Disaster-Prone Areas
},
  journal = {Humanities and Social Sciences},
  volume = {13},
  number = {4},
  pages = {364-372},
  doi = {10.11648/j.hss.20251304.19},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.hss.20251304.19},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.hss.20251304.19},
  abstract = {This study investigates the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing spiritual resilience among youth in disaster-prone areas, focusing on the partner communities of St. Paul University Philippines (SPUP). Given the emotional and spiritual challenges faced by young individuals during calamities, the research utilized a mixed-methods design involving surveys and interviews with 200 randomly selected youth from the provinces of Cagayan and Apayao. Results indicate a high level of spiritual engagement and strong coping strategies among the youth yet reveal only a moderate extent of AI-supported resource utilization. To address this gap, the study introduced the AI-Enhanced Spiritual Resilience (AI-ESR) Framework, which encompasses three key dimensions: Faith Anchors (AI-facilitated prayer and reflection tools), Sacred Havens (digital platforms for communal worship and pastoral counseling), and Empowerment Tools (AI applications for scripture study, ethical discernment, and mental well-being). These components are designed to uphold theological integrity while promoting relational authenticity in virtual faith environments. The study concludes that AI, when guided by sound theological and pastoral principles, can meaningfully support traditional spiritual care. It offers youth accessible and adaptive avenues to deepen their faith and resilience, especially in moments of crisis and uncertainty brought about by disasters.},
 year = {2025}
}

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TY - JOUR
T1 - AI-Enhanced Spiritual Resilience for Youth in Disaster-Prone Areas

AU - Allan Peejay M. Lappay
AU - Carlos L. Babaran Jr.
Y1 - 2025/07/28
PY - 2025
N1 - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.hss.20251304.19
DO - 10.11648/j.hss.20251304.19
T2 - Humanities and Social Sciences
JF - Humanities and Social Sciences
JO - Humanities and Social Sciences
SP - 364
EP - 372
PB - Science Publishing Group
SN - 2330-8184
UR - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.hss.20251304.19
AB - This study investigates the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing spiritual resilience among youth in disaster-prone areas, focusing on the partner communities of St. Paul University Philippines (SPUP). Given the emotional and spiritual challenges faced by young individuals during calamities, the research utilized a mixed-methods design involving surveys and interviews with 200 randomly selected youth from the provinces of Cagayan and Apayao. Results indicate a high level of spiritual engagement and strong coping strategies among the youth yet reveal only a moderate extent of AI-supported resource utilization. To address this gap, the study introduced the AI-Enhanced Spiritual Resilience (AI-ESR) Framework, which encompasses three key dimensions: Faith Anchors (AI-facilitated prayer and reflection tools), Sacred Havens (digital platforms for communal worship and pastoral counseling), and Empowerment Tools (AI applications for scripture study, ethical discernment, and mental well-being). These components are designed to uphold theological integrity while promoting relational authenticity in virtual faith environments. The study concludes that AI, when guided by sound theological and pastoral principles, can meaningfully support traditional spiritual care. It offers youth accessible and adaptive avenues to deepen their faith and resilience, especially in moments of crisis and uncertainty brought about by disasters.
VL - 13
IS - 4
ER -

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Allan Peejay M. Lappay

Alumni, External Relations and Advocacies, St. Paul University Philippines, Tuguegarao City, Philippines

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http://orcid.org/0000-0002-0041-4719
Carlos L. Babaran Jr.

Information and Communications Technology, St. Paul University Philippines, Tuguegarao City, Philippines

http://orcid.org/0009-0004-5600-5254

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Figure 1

Figure 1. SPUP’s AI-Enhanced Spiritual Resilience (AI-ESR) Framework.

Plain Text BibTeX RIS

APA Style

Lappay, A. P. M., Jr., C. L. B. (2025). AI-Enhanced Spiritual Resilience for Youth in Disaster-Prone Areas. Humanities and Social Sciences, 13(4), 364-372. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.hss.20251304.19

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ACS Style

Lappay, A. P. M.; Jr., C. L. B. AI-Enhanced Spiritual Resilience for Youth in Disaster-Prone Areas. Humanit. Soc. Sci. 2025, 13(4), 364-372. doi: 10.11648/j.hss.20251304.19

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AMA Style

Lappay APM, Jr. CLB. AI-Enhanced Spiritual Resilience for Youth in Disaster-Prone Areas. Humanit Soc Sci. 2025;13(4):364-372. doi: 10.11648/j.hss.20251304.19

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@article{10.11648/j.hss.20251304.19,
  author = {Allan Peejay M. Lappay and Carlos L. Babaran Jr.},
  title = {AI-Enhanced Spiritual Resilience for Youth in Disaster-Prone Areas
},
  journal = {Humanities and Social Sciences},
  volume = {13},
  number = {4},
  pages = {364-372},
  doi = {10.11648/j.hss.20251304.19},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.hss.20251304.19},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.hss.20251304.19},
  abstract = {This study investigates the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing spiritual resilience among youth in disaster-prone areas, focusing on the partner communities of St. Paul University Philippines (SPUP). Given the emotional and spiritual challenges faced by young individuals during calamities, the research utilized a mixed-methods design involving surveys and interviews with 200 randomly selected youth from the provinces of Cagayan and Apayao. Results indicate a high level of spiritual engagement and strong coping strategies among the youth yet reveal only a moderate extent of AI-supported resource utilization. To address this gap, the study introduced the AI-Enhanced Spiritual Resilience (AI-ESR) Framework, which encompasses three key dimensions: Faith Anchors (AI-facilitated prayer and reflection tools), Sacred Havens (digital platforms for communal worship and pastoral counseling), and Empowerment Tools (AI applications for scripture study, ethical discernment, and mental well-being). These components are designed to uphold theological integrity while promoting relational authenticity in virtual faith environments. The study concludes that AI, when guided by sound theological and pastoral principles, can meaningfully support traditional spiritual care. It offers youth accessible and adaptive avenues to deepen their faith and resilience, especially in moments of crisis and uncertainty brought about by disasters.},
 year = {2025}
}

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TY - JOUR
T1 - AI-Enhanced Spiritual Resilience for Youth in Disaster-Prone Areas

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