Church AI Policy Template

Every church needs an AI policy — even a small one. This template gives you a complete, customizable policy you can adapt for your congregation. It’s written in plain language, not legal jargon.

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[CHURCH NAME] Artificial Intelligence Use Policy

Effective Date: [DATE]
Approved By: [BOARD/LEADERSHIP BODY]
Next Review Date: [ONE YEAR FROM APPROVAL]

1. Purpose

This policy establishes guidelines for the ethical and responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools by all staff, volunteers, and leaders of [CHURCH NAME]. As a church committed to integrity, transparency, and the protection of our congregation, we recognize both the potential benefits and risks of AI technology.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All paid staff members
• All volunteers in any ministry role
• All elected and appointed leaders (deacons, elders, board members, committee chairs)
• Anyone acting on behalf of [CHURCH NAME]

3. Definitions

Artificial Intelligence (AI): Computer systems that can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, including but not limited to text generation, image creation, data analysis, and decision support.

Generative AI: AI tools that create new content, such as text (ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini), images (DALL-E, Midjourney), or audio.

Confidential Information: Any private data about members, attendees, donors, counseling subjects, or church business that is not publicly available.

4. Permitted Uses

The following uses of AI are permitted under this policy:

• Administrative tasks: Drafting emails, newsletters, event announcements, and social media posts (with human review before publishing)
• Research: Gathering background information on Bible passages, theological topics, historical context, or ministry ideas
• Brainstorming: Generating ideas for sermons, lessons, events, programs, or outreach (as a starting point, not a final product)
• Editing and proofreading: Checking grammar, spelling, and clarity of church communications
• Scheduling and logistics: Helping plan events, coordinate volunteers, or manage calendars
• Education: Helping volunteers understand complex topics or prepare teaching materials

5. Prohibited Uses

The following uses of AI are strictly prohibited:

• Never input confidential information. This includes member records, counseling details, financial information, disciplinary matters, or any private data about individuals.
• Never present AI-generated content as entirely your own original work without disclosure, especially in sermons, teachings, or published materials.
• Never use AI to make pastoral decisions. AI can inform your thinking; it cannot replace prayer, discernment, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
• Never use AI to generate content that is deceptive, manipulative, or designed to exploit vulnerable people.
• Never use AI to create images or content that violates copyright, trademark, or intellectual property rights.
• Never use AI in ways that would violate the privacy or dignity of any member or attendee.

6. Sermon and Teaching Guidelines

Sermons and Bible teaching carry special responsibility. The following guidelines apply:

• AI may be used for research and background on Scripture passages, historical context, and theological concepts
• AI may be used to generate outlines or ideas as a starting point for sermon preparation
• The pastor/teacher must personally engage with the Scripture, pray, and develop their own message
• If AI was significantly involved in sermon preparation, the pastor should consider a brief disclosure to the congregation (e.g., “I used AI as a research tool in preparing this message”)
• AI should never replace the pastor’s own study, prayer, and dependence on the Holy Spirit

7. Data Privacy Requirements

All staff and volunteers must follow these data privacy rules when using AI:

• Do not enter any personally identifiable information about church members, attendees, or donors into any AI tool
• Do not enter counseling notes, prayer requests, or pastoral care information into any AI tool
• Do not enter church financial data, giving records, or budget information into any AI tool
• Do not enter church membership rolls, attendance records, or demographic data into any AI tool
• When in doubt, don’t put it in

8. Transparency and Disclosure

[CHURCH NAME] is committed to transparency about AI use:

• Staff and volunteers should be open about using AI tools in their work
• Published materials that were substantially AI-generated should include a disclosure statement
• The church will periodically communicate to the congregation about how AI is being used in church operations
• Questions or concerns about AI use should be directed to [CONTACT PERSON/ROLE]

9. Approved Tools

The following AI tools have been reviewed and approved for use by [CHURCH NAME] staff and volunteers:

• [List approved tools, e.g., ChatGPT, Claude, Grammarly, Canva AI, etc.]
• Use of tools not on this list requires approval from [ROLE/COMMITTEE]

10. Violations

Violations of this policy may result in:

• Verbal or written warning (for unintentional violations)
• Restricted access to church technology and AI tools
• Removal from volunteer or leadership position (for serious or repeated violations)
• Legal action (for violations involving data privacy or financial harm)

11. Review and Updates

This policy will be reviewed at least annually and updated as AI technology and church needs evolve. All staff and volunteers will be notified of changes.

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This template is provided by MinistryPlace.net as a free resource for small and rural churches. Customize it freely for your congregation’s needs.

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