Embracing AI with care and caution

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has quickly become part of everyday life - from chatbots and virtual assistants to predictive text and content-generation tools. As AI capabilities expand, charities and not-for-profit organisations, including the Methodist Church, can harness these technologies to amplify outreach, bolster administrative processes and even spark new approaches to mission and ministry.

Yet, this opportunity comes with significant ethical, theological and practical considerations. This long-read blog offers interim guidance while the Methodist Church’s AI Working Group continues its exploration, with plans to present a final report to the Methodist Conference.

AI in charities and not-for-profit organisations

Charities and faith-based organisations can benefit from AI by making administrative tasks simpler and more efficient. For example, AI can automate many routine processes - such as handling common email enquiries, maintaining records, or distributing newsletters - which allows staff and volunteers to devote more time to relational and pastoral work. AI also has the potential to enhance outreach and engagement, thereby helping organisations tailor their communications to the right groups at the right time. This capability can be especially important in reaching communities that might not otherwise connect with faith-based initiatives. Moreover, the inclusive power of AI-driven tools, such as automated captioning or translation services, can help break down language barriers and ensure that worship services, training sessions and other events are more accessible to people of varying needs and backgrounds.

The Methodist Church’s ongoing work

At the 2023 Methodist Conference, a memorial (M1) was submitted by the Cambridge Circuit expressing concerns over the theological, pastoral, and ethical dimensions of AI. Given how extensively AI interlinks with worship, governance and data management, Conference agreed to establish a group dedicated to examining these matters. This AI Working Group is therefore charged with identifying the theological and pastoral issues AI raises; exploring how it might support or complicate traditional ministry practices; and, finally, reporting back with both interim guidance and a more comprehensive set of proposals in 2026

Although that final report is still some way off, there will be periodic updates shared as the work is undertaken. Through these communications, circuits and members will have opportunities to learn about emerging recommendations, offer feedback and share experiences. Partnerships with ecumenical peers and other organisations are also expected to play a role, acknowledging that the effects of AI and the conversations around its use cut across denominational and institutional lines.

Protecting sensitive and personal data

Methodist churches are strongly advised not to enter any sensitive or personal information - such as names, contact details, or other confidential information - into AI tools or platforms. This caution is vital in light of both GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) and PECR (Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations), which impose strict obligations on how personal data is collected, stored and shared. Submitting sensitive information to AI systems operated by third parties can create risks of data exposure and non-compliance with these regulations.

Ensure that your congregation or community is aware of any AI-driven processes you adopt and transparently communicate what kind of data is being used and for what purposes. Before implementing any AI tool, always review the provider’s privacy policies and security measures to confirm they align with GDPR and PECR. By taking these precautions, Methodist churches can uphold their commitment to safeguarding sensitive data while exploring the potential benefits of AI.

Looking ahead: participation and discernment

Involving the wider Methodist community in AI-related matters is not just prudent; it is essential. Congregations, volunteers, lay leaders and staff often have first-hand insights into the ways technology influences worship, outreach and the day-to-day life of the church. By encouraging open discussions, the Church can identify potential pitfalls, whether concerning privacy, bias, or the possibility of depersonalizing community interactions. These shared conversations also foster a culture of mutual learning, where participants can discover how AI might simplify certain tasks or enable fresh modes of connection and service.

As the AI Working Group continues its research and dialogue, every local church or circuit is invited to share experiences - successes, challenges, or uncertainties. This cumulative wisdom will help build an evidence-based and ethically informed picture of how AI can be deployed in Methodist ministry. Ultimately, this collaborative approach ensures that the Church’s official responses to AI are more than just top-down edicts; they are shaped by real-life pastoral experiences and guided by the Spirit leading in varied contexts.

Discernment, responsibility and hope

AI clearly brings new possibilities for charities and not-for-profit organisations, including those within the Methodist Church, to grow in reach, accessibility, and efficiency. At the same time, it compels us to confront complex questions about what it means to bear God’s image, how to uphold the dignity of every person, and how best to maintain integrity in ministry. While the AI Working Group’s final report is scheduled, there are key principles we can affirm right now.

First, discernment is essential. Any decision to adopt an AI tool should be considered prayerfully and examined in light of the Church’s mission, theological commitments and ethical standards. Second, responsibility must guide our actions. As stewards of personal and sensitive data,and as leaders in spiritual care, we are accountable for how AI shapes the experiences of those we serve. Finally, hope propels us forward. By embracing AI with careful reflection, we may discover ways for technology to support and enrich the Church’s gospel witness, always remembering that human relationships, compassion and spiritual depth cannot be replaced by any machine.

As we continue to learn and share together, let us remain open to how God might work through our engagement with AI, remaining vigilant about upholding the dignity of all, striving for justice and faithfully proclaiming the good news in a rapidly changing world.

Feel free to share your experiences in the comments below. Your insights into AI’s opportunities and challenges are invaluable as we navigate this new terrain in faith and service.