Jeffrey Allan, the co-author of the book 'Writing AI Prompts for Dummies' and the director of the Institute for Technology, Artificial Intelligence, and Society at Nazareth University, was interviewed on the show 'Connections with Evan Dawson'. The book provides guidance on using generative AI to produce content and how to AI-proof your job. Allan's book aims to help individuals navigate the world of AI and understand how to leverage it effectively. The interview also mentions that according to Pew Research, 58 percent of U.S. adults have heard of ChatGPT, and 18 percent have used it.
In a recent development, Rev. Dwight Lee Wolter, pastor of Congregational Church of Patchogue, Long Island, used an AI program called ChatGPT to create an entire church service. The service included a call to worship, invocation, pastoral prayer, scripture reading, sermon, hymns, prelude, postlude, and benediction. Wolter's purpose was to explore the use of AI in the church and encourage curiosity and open-mindedness [a2ccb3bb]. The attendance was good, and the congregation was curious but cautious. Wolter plans to follow up with a reflection on the service and a sermon about AI, discussing reactions, thoughts, and concerns. He believes that AI will have a significant impact on church life, community, mission, ministries, theology, ethics, and loneliness.
This development highlights the growing presence of AI in various domains, including religious practices. It raises questions about the role of AI in shaping and enhancing spiritual experiences. While some may embrace the use of AI in church services as a tool for innovation and engagement, others may have concerns about the potential implications and limitations of relying on AI for religious practices. The use of AI in the church is an ongoing conversation that seeks to balance tradition and technology, faith and innovation, and human agency and automation. It invites exploration and reflection on the intersection of spirituality and artificial intelligence.