Churches Embrace AI While Guarding The Gospel
A growing number of churches in the U.S. are incorporating artificial intelligence into their ministries, although most pastors remain hesitant to use it for crafting sermons, according to the State of the Church Tech 2025 report. The report, compiled by Pushpay in collaboration with Engiven and Checkr, surveyed around 8,000 church leaders in February and revealed that AI adoption in churches has surged by 80%, primarily for administrative and communication-related tasks.
Despite the growing use of AI, the study shows that church leaders are still reluctant to apply the technology to spiritual content creation. Less than 25% of respondents reported using AI for writing devotionals, sermon preparation, or pastoral care, a trend consistent with last year’s findings. Instead, AI is mostly being used for editing content and generating materials such as emails, social media posts, and digital imagery—tools that help churches streamline communication efforts.
The hesitation to use AI for core spiritual duties stems largely from church leaders’ desire to remain rooted in divine guidance and tradition. Many have dedicated their lives to ministry long before AI became prominent and continue to view their calling as one led by the Holy Spirit. However, once messages are crafted, leaders are embracing AI tools to distribute them more effectively and efficiently.
The report’s findings follow a recent move by Gloo—a technology firm that serves faith communities—to promote former Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger to executive chairman and head of technology. Gelsinger emphasized the importance of faith groups being proactive in shaping AI’s development, unlike their slow engagement with previous digital platforms. He argued that faith-based organizations have a unique opportunity to influence AI as a force for good.
Additionally, the report highlights that 86% of church leaders believe technology enhances community connection. Pushpay CEO Kenny Wyatt noted that church leaders increasingly view tech not as a replacement for human relationships but as a tool to strengthen them. The report underscores a shift in mindset, with more faith leaders recognizing technology’s potential to support and expand ministry efforts without compromising core spiritual values.