LOS ANGELES (AP) — The release of 'Disclosure Day' by Steven Spielberg invites audiences to consider the existence of extraterrestrial life and its potential implications for religion. This topic has gained traction recently, appearing in discussions from the White House to the Catholic Church, as interest in unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAPs) becomes more mainstream. In May, the Pentagon released a significant amount of UFO files, prompting public speculation. Former President Barack Obama contributed to the conversation by stating in an interview that the universe's vastness suggests the likelihood of extraterrestrial life, although he clarified he had no evidence of contact during his presidency.
Some religious adherents believe that the existence of extraterrestrial life could challenge the notion of human uniqueness, while others argue it could benefit religious perspectives. Diana Walsh Pasulka, a religion scholar, stated that belief in UFOs could counter a secular worldview. Conversely, Vice President JD Vance expressed skepticism, suggesting that UFOs may be demonic rather than extraterrestrial. This view was echoed by Monsignor Stephen Rossetti, who was recently removed from his position by the Archdiocese of Washington for comments that contradicted Catholic teaching.
Christopher Baglow from the University of Notre Dame noted that the Catholic Church has historically been open to the idea of extraterrestrial life, with theologians speculating on the subject for centuries. Pope Leo XIV previously remarked on the wonders of the universe, which some interpreted as an acknowledgment of the possibility of life beyond Earth.
The concept of extraterrestrial beings has ancient roots, with Greek philosophers discussing the existence of life on other planets. Modern ideas about UFOs began to take shape after 1945, influenced by Cold War narratives. Some new religious movements, such as Scientology and the International Raëlian Movement, incorporate extraterrestrial beings into their beliefs. Susan Palmer, a sociologist, highlighted that Raëlism is particularly sympathetic to UFOs, focusing on peaceful interactions rather than conflict.
Jeffrey Kripal, a historian of religions, noted a growing openness in academic circles to discussions about UFOs and the experiences reported by individuals who encounter these entities. He observed that many of these experiences are deeply intertwined with religious beliefs.