AI and the Call to be More Human
In 1984, Tom Clancy wrote “The Hunt for Red October,” a Cold War spy thriller where new technology is introduced, yet the ability for humans to discern the intent of other humans is what prevents the two superpowers from going to war.
Clancy’s novel is also a warning for the future, as he wrote, “it was one thing to use computers as a tool, quite another to let them do your thinking.”
Artificial Intelligence, AI, continues to become an integral part of our society. There are many great benefits to the development of AI. Yet, like Clancy’s warning, it’s one thing to use AI as a tool, but it’s quite another to let AI do all of our thinking.
Earlier this year, the United States and China almost faced a catastrophic event as an AI chatbot inaccurately identified a Chinese vessel as carrying nuclear material. The report was entirely false but almost started a war as the US military prepared to intervene.
The decisions we make, day-to-day, using AI aren’t going to initiate wars. Yet, the way that we are influenced and make decisions will require intentionality in human connection and critical thinking.
Even the church is affected by AI.
Carey Nieuwhof, a pastor and author, wrote “AI and the Future of the Church” with a warning that the church can’t be naïve and ignore the impact of AI. His book explores how the church’s future direction is human direction. “As the world becomes more artificial,” wrote Nieuwhof, “the church’s calling is to become more human.”
My church, Faith Lutheran, is experiencing a desire for more human connection. Ministry focused on fellowship (and often food) are in high demand. Caregivers who have a loved one with dementia meets a critical need.
How can the church be mindful of AI without burying our head in the sand?
In November, Faith Lutheran is hosting a two-week event to address the impact of AI and what we can do about it.
On Wednesday, November 4th, from 6:30-7:30, Faith will show Screenagers: Generation AI. The film explores what can be done to mitigate risks and promote healthy development.
Then, on Wednesday, November 11th, also from 6:30-7:30, we will talk about AI. We will start as a large group but break into small groups by middle school, high school, and adults with mental health counselors facilitating those conversations.
Joy McElroy, Executive Director of Cherish All Children, is partnering with Faith and the Forest Lake School District to bring this timely conversation to our community. Human connection is vital to building trust with youth.
“We ask youth to identify three safe adults and 1-3 safe friends in their lives. These are people they can go to and talk about anything difficult that may be going on in their life,” said McElroy. “Sadly, AI chatbots are now competing with these real people and they’re doing it without safety features to keep kids safe.”
These two free events are open to the community and for all ages. The movie is not faith based, so any questions or commentary about how our faith is affected by AI will be addressed during the November 11th discussion.
McElroy said, “Screenagers AI will help us all understand how we can rally to support youth’s safety in these times.”
Pastor John Klawiter is the senior pastor of Faith Lutheran Church, an ELCA congregation in Forest Lake. For more information, email him at
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