The Importance of AI in Ministry: Embracing the Tools, Honoring the Mission
by Dana Seiler, Pinnacle Associate
As ministry leaders in the 21st century, we are living through a technological revolution that is transforming every aspect of life—including how we do church. While artificial intelligence (AI) may sound like something out of a sci-fi movie, it’s already woven into our daily routines: from suggested Bible readings on your phone to automated church emails and livestream captions. The question isn’t if AI belongs in ministry—it’s how we’ll steward it well.
Amplifying, Not Replacing Ministry
AI is a powerful tool, not a replacement for Spirit-led leadership. At its best, AI amplifies our capacity for connection, care, and communication. For example, pastors can use AI-driven transcription tools to quickly turn sermons into devotionals, newsletters, or social media posts—reaching people beyond Sunday morning.
AI can also help us remove barriers. Real-time translation and closed captioning allow worship services to reach those who speak different languages or have hearing impairments. AI-powered scheduling tools and data management systems can streamline volunteer coordination, follow-up with newcomers, or even detect when a regular attendee has been absent too long—helping us be more responsive shepherds.
Data-Informed Discipleship
AI can analyze trends in attendance, engagement, giving, and outreach. This isn't about turning the church into a business—it's about being wise stewards of the information we already have. When used ethically, data helps us better understand the needs of our congregation and respond with intentionality. Imagine knowing which sermon series connected most with young adults—or which small group curriculum sparked the most engagement. AI doesn’t just deliver answers; it reveals patterns we might otherwise miss.
Conclusion: Don’t Fear the Future—Shape It.
AI isn’t going away. But that’s no reason for panic. Instead, it’s an invitation… an invitation to innovate without compromising the gospel, to reach without losing relationship, and to lead with both technological savvy and spiritual depth.
In the end, AI can never replace the work of the Holy Spirit, the power of prayer, or the presence of a listening ear. But it can help clear the path—so we can walk more faithfully into the world Christ has called us to serve.
If you are interested in learning more about how to leverage AI in your particular church setting you can reach out to Rev. Dana Seiler at revdvaughn@gmail.com or you can sign up for the clergy collective track https://www.pinnlead.com/ai-in-ministry.
Rev. Dana Seiler has been working in ordained ministry for 10 years. During that time she has served as a Solo Pastor, a Head of Staff, and as an Associate Pastor. Dana is the mother of a little girl, and has first hand knowledge about the difficulties of being a female in ministry, and also the challenges of being a mother in ministry. Dana is serving as an Associate Pastor for children, youth, mission and pastoral care at Unity Presbyterian Church in Denver, NC.
