I was skeptical. As a writer, I didn’t want to believe that there was a tool out there that could craft something together that would be considered quality. But my friend was telling me about her son who used generative AI to put together a resume and job application that, in her professional opinion (background in recruiting), looked legit. Despite being skeptical, I was more curious, and two years ago, I jumped into the generative AI world.
"Generative AI enables users to quickly generate new content based on a variety of inputs. Inputs and outputs to these models can include text, images, sounds, animation, 3D models, or other types of data (NVIDIA)." Popular generative AI tools include OpenAI ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, and Adobe Firefly.
Over time, I’ve discovered that generative AI isn’t about replacing creativity or human connection—it’s about enhancing and supporting the work we’re already doing. Ministry leaders, especially those stretched thin on time and resources, can benefit significantly from using this tool. Here are five things I’ve learned about generative AI and how it can benefit parish ministry:
IT'S A TIME-SAVER, NOT A REPLACEMENT
One of the biggest benefits I’ve discovered is how generative AI can save significant amounts of time. Instead of spending hours crafting an email or brainstorming social media posts, you can use AI to draft ideas or create templates. This doesn’t replace your creativity but enhances it by freeing up your time for the work only you can do—building relationships and ministering to others.
IT'S ONLY AS GOOD AS YOUR INPUT
I quickly learned that the quality of what you get from generative AI is directly tied to the clarity of what you ask. For example, when writing a reflection or creating a resource for ministry, providing detailed prompts—such as the theme, audience, and desired tone—produces better results. This has taught me to refine my communication skills, which has carried over into how I interact with others in ministry.
IT'S A TOOL FOR FLESHING OUT IDEAS
Generative AI has become a critical tool for fleshing out big or intangible ideas. When I’m wrestling with a a theme for a retreat, or a training idea for my volunteers, AI helps me break it down into manageable pieces. It’s a way of testing out an idea, putting it on paper, and making it practical before sharing it with leaders or a team. This process has brought clarity and focus to many of my projects, making collaboration and communication much smoother.
IT CAN BE A MINISTRY MULTIPLIER
Generative AI helps expand your reach and impact in multiple ways. For example, it can simplify creating customizable resources like volunteer guides, event materials, or lesson plans tailored to specific needs. It’s also a powerful tool for streamlining repetitive tasks, such as drafting weekly emails or generating ideas for youth activities, freeing up time to focus on more relational aspects of ministry. This flexibility enables ministry leaders to serve more effectively.
LEARNING TO USE IT WELL IS AN INVESTMENT
Just like any tool, generative AI requires some upfront effort to learn how to use it effectively. I spent time experimenting with different tools, exploring their limitations, and understanding how they align with my goals. This intentionality has paid off in how I approach other areas of ministry, emphasizing the importance of growth and adaptation. It’s a reminder that embracing new tools, even reluctantly, can strengthen your work.
5 BEST PRACTICES FOR USING GENERATIVE AI IN MINISTRY
1. Start Small and Stay Purposeful
Begin with one specific area where generative AI can save you time or enhance your work, such as drafting emails or creating social media content. Focus on measurable outcomes to build confidence in using the tool.
2. Be Clear and Specific with Prompts
The quality of the output depends on the quality of your input. Provide clear and detailed prompts, including your audience, tone, and desired format, to ensure the results align with your needs.
3. Edit to Reflect Your Voice and Values
Generative AI is a great starting point, but it’s up to you to refine the output to align with your ministry’s mission and tone. Take time to review and edit so the final product reflects your unique voice.
4. Use It Ethically and Transparently
Be mindful of copyright, accuracy, and how your audience perceives AI-generated content. Ensure it aligns with Catholic values and always add the personal touch that ministry requires.
5. Train Your Team for Collaborative Use
Share what you’ve learned with your team. Encourage them to use generative AI for brainstorming, planning, and creating resources. This not only multiplies its benefits but also fosters creativity and collaboration.
Generative AI has become a valuable tool in my ministry toolkit. While I was initially skeptical, it’s proven to be a game-changer in saving time, fostering creativity, and enabling me to serve more effectively. I'd love to know your thoughts and questions regarding Generative AI, feel free to share them in the comments.