AI Trends
Sam and I recently attended the MissionalAI Conference in San Jose. This event focused on how artificial intelligence is intersecting with faith, ministry, and culture.
There is no shortage of innovation! From AI being used in Bible translation and global content accessibility (such as The Chosen app), to rapid advancements in how quickly ideas can be created and distributed, it became clear to us that we’ve moved beyond “the age of information” and into the age of velocity.
What stood out most were the questions being asked about what AI is doing to us rather than what AI can do for us.
Several themes kept surfacing:
- AI is a powerful tool, but not a coworker
- Entire generations (Gen Z and Alpha) are now learning what “connection” feels like from something that cannot love them back
- Practicing Christians are early adopters of AI… AI is already shaping spiritual life
- In a world of constant speed, quietness may be the most radical discipline we have left
This was also a sobering reminder that what we pay attention to always comes at the cost of what we ignore.
Why It Matters
AI is a formation shift.
Ministries are already adopting AI tools, which means this technology is actively shaping spiritual rhythms, communication styles, and how people experience connection and truth.
While the risk could be misuse, it could also be unexamined use.
If values aren’t clearly defined upfront, it becomes very easy to optimize for engagement, efficiency, or reach at the expense of what actually matters.
There is a growing need for Christians to be experts in the AI space, both as users and voices of wisdom, discernment, and presence.
Next Steps
Before adopting the next AI tool or strategy, take time to define what matters most.
Ask: What are we optimizing for?
Then build your use of AI around those values because in an age of velocity, intentionality is what will set your ministry apart.
What’s one value you want to protect as your ministry begins (or continues) using AI?
Shauna Goodison
Director of Communications | shauna@eaglecom.ca