Imagine walking into your local place of worship, finding your seat, and getting ready to hear a sermon. But instead of your familiar priest, minister, or rabbi, a robot steps up to deliver the day’s message. It might sound like science fiction, but it’s becoming a real possibility in some parts of the world.

Can a machine really lead a religious service? Would people accept a robot as a spiritual guide? A new study decided to find out, and the results might surprise you.