In 2024, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into church ministries is becoming increasingly prevalent.
The “State of AI in the Church Survey Report,” conducted by Exponential NEXT along with national partners, provides valuable insights into how pastors are leveraging AI to enhance their ministries. This survey drew participation from a diverse range of church leaders across various denominations, titles, and roles, offering a comprehensive perspective on the current state of AI in the church.
Key Insights About AI Usage by Pastors In 2024
1. Growing Acceptance and Use of AI in Ministry
The survey reveals that 87% of respondents are in favor of using AI in ministry, indicating widespread acceptance of its potential benefits. This acceptance is reflected in the fact that 43% of church leaders use AI tools frequently, either weekly or daily for various ministry purposes.
For pastors considering AI, this broad acceptance suggests a supportive environment for experimentation with AI tools. Embracing AI can help streamline tasks and improve efficiency, allowing pastors to focus more on spiritual leadership and less on administrative burdens. By adopting AI, churches can modernize their operations and potentially reach broader audiences through more effective communication strategies.
2. Church Leaders Are Actively Using AI Tools
Among the five most popular AI tools used by church leaders are:
- ChatGPT (25%): The most popular tool is being used for sermon preparation, research, crafting communications, project planning, and other ministry work.
- Grammarly (13%): Enhances clarity and correctness in written content.
- Canva Magic (10%): Facilitates the creation of professional graphics for social media and events.
- Google Gemini (9%): Aids in research and content generation.
- Bing.com (7%): Offers intelligent search capabilities for quick information retrieval.
These tools are valuable assets for enhancing communication and creativity within ministries. By leveraging such technologies, churches can create more engaging content that resonates with their congregations. The Survey Report shares the top 20 tools church leaders are currently utilizing the most.
3. Pastors See Tangible Areas of Impact and Potential Benefits of AI
AI is perceived as particularly beneficial in operational areas such as communications (17%), data analysis (16%), and church administration (14%). However, there is some hesitancy about its role in relational contexts like member engagement and evangelism.
While operational improvements are easy to justify, pastors should approach relational applications with caution. One of the concerns is that it is crucial to maintain the human touch central to pastoral care. It is generally agreed upon that AI can support these efforts but should not replace personal interactions. By thoughtfully integrating AI into various ministry work areas, churches can improve their outreach without compromising the personal connections that are vital to spiritual growth and community building.
4. Emphasis on Training and Education
The survey highlights a significant need for training among church staff to effectively utilize AI tools. 41% of respondents identified a lack of expertise as a major barrier to adoption, suggesting that investment in education is crucial for maximizing AI’s benefits.
Providing staff and key volunteers with training that is specific to church and ministry contexts is essential.
Several outlets already exist to help church staff get up to speed with AI:
- ChatGPTforChurches.com offers an introduction to AI in general as well as specific guidance on using ChatGPT.
- Exponential AI NEXT provides an AI-specific podcast series, video training series, and publishes monthly articles tailored for pastors and church staff.
- AIforChurchLeaders.com/next hosts monthly live workshops for pastors.
- An active online community exists with more than 6,000 church leaders discussing applications of AI in ministry through the AI for Church Leaders and Pastors Facebook Group.
Exponential conferences also feature workshop tracks focused on practical applications of AI for church planters and pastors, providing hands-on learning opportunities.
Churches should consider attending workshops or partnering with technology experts to provide targeted training sessions for staff and volunteers. This approach will not only build confidence among staff but also ensure they can leverage AI tools effectively while navigating ethical considerations.
5. Ethical Considerations and Policy Development
Ethical concerns remain a prominent issue, with 26% of respondents expressing worries about privacy, data security, and potential biases. Developing robust ethical frameworks and AI policies is essential for addressing these concerns and building trust within congregations.
Pastors should engage their teams and communities in discussions about the ethical use of AI, finding the appropriate approaches to transparency and accountability in how these technologies are implemented. By proactively addressing these issues, churches will foster an environment where AI is seen as enhancing rather than detracting from their mission.
Final Thoughts
The integration of AI into church ministry workflows offers exciting possibilities for enhancing efficiency and expanding outreach. However, at the same time, it requires careful consideration of ethical implications and a commitment to maintaining personal connections within the church community. This is why every church needs an AI policy.
In the end, generative AI is just a tool, not a replacement for church staff. By strategically adopting AI tools and addressing potential challenges proactively, pastors can harness technology to better serve their congregations while staying true to their spiritual mission.
Since the landscape of ministry will absolutely continue to evolve with technological advancements, churches must embrace this topic thoughtfully so that they can find new opportunities for growth and impact. Otherwise, the result will be the equivalent to being a church in 2024 that doesn’t use computers or have a website. The consequences are larger than most think.
Overall, “State of AI in the Church Survey” underscores a growing interest among church leaders in integrating AI into various aspects of ministry. Despite initial hesitations, there is optimism about AI’s potential to transform how churches operate and engage with their communities.
Get The Full Report
You can download a copy of the full report as well as watch a webinar recording going through the findings at exponential.org/ai-next.
