It seems Pope Leo’s concerns about the unregulated spread of AI are being taken seriously by a wider Christian audience than just Roman Catholics, at least according to an article in the Church Times a week or two ago, which reported that guidelines had been developed by a group called the AI Christian Partnership, to “help churches of all denominations use AI thoughtfully, faithfully, and well” amid what they see, and are concerned about, which is he “silent adoption” of AI in church life.
The AI Christian Partnership is a not-for-profit organisation made up of Christian groups, theologians, technologists, and academics. The guidelines are there to prevent AI “gradually seeping into church life without proper discussion”, and to help church people to understand its long-term impact. “Although aimed at church ministers, leaders, and volunteers, they contain principles, ethics, and practical tips that all Christians can apply and use.”
AI Christian Partnership’s founder, Chris Goswami, said: “AI can be a great asset for ministry, or it can leave us with a fast-food version of ministry. As with social media, it may only be much later, with hindsight, that we understand the impact of AI — therefore, we encourage churches with foresight to give serious consideration to this now.”
Examples given of AI being used in churches include its use in sermons, prayers, liturgy, and worship songs, in wider ministry (such as pastoral care, small groups and church meetings) and in the Church office, in comms, data, and policy creation. And here in St George’s we are already using AI, for example in creating content and in designing concert posters. So this is timely.
Read the article in the Church Times here.
Read the guidelines here and read more about the AI Christian Partnership here. Ironically I got a security warning when I first entered this site, but it was fine second time round!