In this final episode of Season One, Mercedes and Peter reflect on what they’ve learned over six months of exploring AI and ministry. From shifting use patterns to theological concerns, from project workflows to mental health implications, they chart both practical strategies and faithful commitments for churches navigating an AI-shaped world. Topics Covered: Sci-fi stories as mirrors for our hopes and fears about AI Why relational ministry can’t be automated The emotional effects of AI vs. soci...
Jul 28, 2025•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 12
Sr. Ilia Delio, OSF, joins Peter and Mercedes for a conversation that weaves theology, science, and technology into a hopeful and challenging vision for the future. Drawing on Teilhard de Chardin’s evolutionary theology, she invites us to see AI not merely as a tool but as part of the unfolding of creation itself. Together, they explore what it means to become more whole, more relational, and more deeply rooted in divine love in an age shaped by artificial intelligence. Topics Covered: AI as hum...
Jul 14, 2025•51 min•Ep. 11
In this special crossover episode with the Crossroads podcast, Peter and Mercedes are joined by The Rev. Jo Nygard Owens and Dr. Sonia Coman of Washington National Cathedral. Together, they explore what it means to engage AI thoughtfully and faithfully—from theological reflection to digital strategy, from ethical caution to spiritual curiosity. The conversation invites listeners to embrace imagination, resist fear, and reclaim human agency in a rapidly shifting digital landscape. Topics Covered ...
Jun 30, 2025•1 hr•Ep. 10
In this episode, Peter speaks with the Rev. Lauren Grubaugh Thomas, founding vicar of Holy Companion Episcopal Church and creator of A Soulful Revolution . Together, they explore the ethical and pastoral complexities of generative AI—its creative potential, its risks, and how the church can faithfully engage with this rapidly evolving technology. Lauren draws on insights from Octavia Butler’s Parable of the Sower, shares stories from her ministry, and reflects on how spiritual formation, agency,...
Jun 16, 2025•55 min•Ep. 9
Priest, educator, and digital ministry expert Kyle Oliver joins Peter to explore the possibilities and perils of AI in content creation, Christian formation, and online communication. They reflect on the tension between productivity and presence, and what faithful engagement might look like. Topics Covered Kyle’s cautious experimentation with generative AI in content creation. The struggle for creative control and the limits of “black box” tools. What happens when beauty is decoupled from intent...
Jun 02, 2025•48 min•Ep. 8
In our first interview episode, we sit down with Fr. Lorenzo Lebrija, Executive Director of the TryTank Research Institute, to discuss faithful innovation, the creation of Ask Cathy, the challenges and promises of AI, and how the church can thoughtfully engage this rapidly changing landscape. Topics covered: Introduction to Ask Cathy : An AI resource trained in the Episcopal tradition to assist congregations, especially small ones. Plans for future Cathy updates, including liturgy support, pasto...
May 19, 2025•58 min•Ep. 7
Summary: How do you introduce AI into your congregation thoughtfully and transparently? In this episode, we share real-life experiences, challenges, and lessons learned about navigating conversations, addressing concerns, and building trust as church leaders using AI. Show Notes: Topics covered: Mercedes’s step-by-step approach to introducing AI at All Saints’ Episcopal Church. Transparency about AI use, including from the pulpit and in vestry discussions. Managing expectations with a Responsibl...
May 05, 2025•49 min•Ep. 7
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 ...
Apr 21, 2025•26 min•Ep. 6
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 ...
Apr 21, 2025•24 min•Ep. 5
AI’s environmental impact is a growing concern, but how much energy does it really use? In this episode, we break down common claims about AI’s carbon footprint, explore how it compares to other technologies, and discuss how church leaders can make informed decisions about its use. Topics covered: Common claims about AI’s environmental impact. Breaking down AI’s electricity and water usage. Comparisons between AI, streaming services, and other digital technologies. The difference between AI trai...
Apr 07, 2025•22 min•Ep. 4
In this short update, Mercedes and Peter announce a shift to a biweekly release schedule for the AI Church Toolkit Podcast . They share their commitment to delivering thoughtful, faith-rooted conversations about AI in ministry—and tease next week’s episode on AI’s real-world impacts, from environmental costs to ministry applications. A big shoutout goes to Tritank for supporting the show. Hit follow, leave a review, and stay tuned for more tools for faithful innovation! Resources: AI Church Tool...
Mar 31, 2025•3 min
AI can be a valuable tool for sermon preparation, but how can preachers use it responsibly? This episode explores how AI can assist with research, outlining, and revision while ensuring sermons remain authentic, faithful, and pastorally grounded. Topics covered: AI as a sermon-writing assistant , not a replacement. Common concerns: plagiarism, theological integrity, and authenticity. Practical AI uses: Researching scripture and historical context. Brainstorming sermon themes and outlines. Revisi...
Mar 24, 2025•37 min•Ep. 3
What exactly is AI, and how can it be useful in church ministry? This episode explains AI in simple terms, explores its applications for church leaders, and discusses how to use it effectively while maintaining authenticity and discernment. Topics covered: What is AI? A quick history and key definitions. AI vs. search engines: How generative AI works differently. How AI can assist ministry: Sermons, outreach, lesson planning, and more. The role of discernment: AI as a brainstorming tool, not a r...
Mar 17, 2025•32 min•Ep. 2
AI is rapidly evolving, and church leaders need to understand how it can impact ministry. This episode covers the current AI landscape, key definitions, ethical concerns, and why the Baptismal Covenant provides a helpful framework for engagement. Topics covered: Why AI matters for ministry today. Key definitions: AI, Machine Learning, Generative AI. Current AI trends (LLMs, image generation, voice tools, and upcoming AI "agents"). Ethical concerns: AI bias, copyright, and the role of human creat...
Mar 10, 2025•36 min•Ep. 1
Welcome to AI Church Toolkit , a podcast for church leaders exploring how AI can support ministry in practical ways. Hosts Mercedes Clements and Peter Levenstrong introduce themselves, their goals for the podcast, and why AI matters for the Church today. Topics Covered Hosts: The Rev. Mercedes Clements (All Saints’ Episcopal, Russellville, AR) & The Rev. Peter Levenstrong (St. Gregory’s of Nyssa, San Francisco, CA). Podcast focus: Practical applications of AI in ministry—no sci-fi hype, just...
Mar 03, 2025•7 min
