Directors, Religious Activities and Education

Directors of Religious Activities often do tasks like scheduling retreats, conferences, and recruiting volunteers ^[1]. Today, many of these tasks already use software or basic AI. For example, calendar and event‐scheduling apps are common tools ^[1], and even Google’s new AI search mode can book appointments or event tickets automatically ^[2].

Churches also use digital tools to reach volunteers – many leaders report using AI-assisted email and social media tools to create announcements and recruit participants ^[3]. Some congregations have even experimented with chatbots for spiritual Q&A (for instance, a “Text with Jesus” bot) ^[4], though this is very new. Despite these tech helpers, the most personal parts of the job – like counseling members or meeting with clergy – remain human.

These duties need empathy, care, and judgment, which AI can’t truly provide yet.

AI is spreading slowly in this field for a few reasons. There are plenty of generic AI tools (free or cheap) for simple tasks like writing emails or managing calendars, so even small churches can try them. A recent report found 45% of church leaders now use some AI in their admin work ^[3].

But specialized “church AI” (for teaching or pastoral care) is rare, partly because budgets are tight and volunteers are plentiful. Also, using AI in spiritual matters raises concerns. Many people feel a computer can’t understand faith or give real comfort ^[4].

On the whole, AI is being adopted mainly where it clearly saves time (routine scheduling or communications) ^[3]. This way, directors can focus on teaching and caring for people – human skills that are hard to replace.