Churches in the U.S. Embrace AI, But Sermons Remain Untouched by Technology
As technology continues to advance, more U.S. churches are integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into their operations, though pastors remain hesitant to use it for crafting sermons. Insights from the State of the Church Tech 2025 report reveal the growing trend.
This report, a collaborative effort by Pushpay, Engiven, and Checkr, gathered data from around 8,000 church leaders in February.
The report notes a substantial 80% rise in AI usage across various church ministries, albeit primarily for specific tasks. Researchers observe, “While adoption (of AI) has increased, leaders remain reluctant to rely on AI for pastoral content. Last year’s report revealed that less than one quarter of AI users applied the tool for developing devotionals, sermons, or ideas for pastoral care; that pattern still holds true today.”
Church leaders predominantly employ AI to boost operational efficiency, focusing extensively on communication tools such as email, imagery, and social media posts. Despite AI’s growing presence, the spiritual aspect of leadership remains grounded in traditional practices.
The reluctance to integrate AI into sermon preparation stems from a desire to maintain the spiritual essence of church leadership. Researchers explain, “Those called to lead in the Church — many of whom began serving long before AI rose to prominence — pursued their vocation out of [a] desire to lead through the Holy Spirit.” However, once messages are crafted, AI is leveraged to disseminate them effectively.
The report’s insights arrive shortly after Gloo, a prominent technology platform within the faith ecosystem, revealed that Pat Gelsinger, former Intel CEO, expanded his role to executive chairman and head of technology. Gelsinger aims to guide AI development towards benefiting society, especially within the faith community.
Gelsinger highlighted the faith community’s slow adaptation to digital platforms, emphasizing the need to avoid repeating this with AI. He stated, “The ability to shape AI as a force for good is enormous. Being able to truly be where faith and technology come together, be an influence for how the church can take advantage of the latest technology but do so in shaping AI as a force for good.”
Moreover, the State of the Church Tech 2025 report shows that 86% of church leaders concur that technology fosters connection within their communities. Pushpay CEO Kenny Wyatt commented, “This year’s State of Church Tech report offers more than just statistics and data — it’s a window into the evolving mindset of church leaders.”
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
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