AI Church Toolkit

How to relate to AI - Part 2


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Episode 5: Relating to AI

Summary:
Can we have a relationship with AI? In this episode, we explore the human tendency to anthropomorphize AI, the risks of treating it like a person, and how to stay grounded in using it as a tool that supports ministry, without replacing authentic relationships.

Topics covered:

  • Why AI is not a relational being and should be treated as a tool.
  • Real-world examples of people forming unhealthy attachments to chatbots.
  • The dangers of anthropomorphizing AI, especially for youth and vulnerable users.
  • How to engage AI intentionally and avoid theological or emotional confusion.
  • Strategies for using AI in ministry while maintaining emotional and relational boundaries.

Homework:

  • Reflect on how you currently use AI.
  • Ask: “Does this enhance relationships or replace them?”
  • Identify boundaries you may need to set around emotional or theological engagement with AI.

Resources:

  • She Is in Love With ChatGPT
  • Andy Masley’s article on AI’s environmental impact
  • Antiqua et Nova – Catholic Church, Note on the Relationship Between Artificial Intelligence and Human Intelligence
  • OpenAI & MIT Media Lab study on AI and loneliness
  • https://aichurchtoolkit.com/
  • AI Technology Panic—is AI Dependence Bad for Mental Health? A Cross-Lagged Panel Model and the Mediating Roles of Motivations for AI Use Among Adolescents
  • "Anthropomorphism in AI" 
  • "AI anthropomorphism and its effect on users' self-congruence and continuance intention"
  • “Anthropomorphism in AI: hype and fallacy”
  • Teddy Ruxpin
  • Max Headroom
...more
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AI Church ToolkitBy Peter Levenstrong, Mercedes Clements & AI

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