Ministry in an AI Era Conference

In an era of increasing globalization and digital engagement, this in-person event will bring together local Catholic thought leaders and AI practitioners from the greater southeast Michigan region to support you and provide professional development to equip you. This in-person event is all about exploring how AI is transforming ministry and what it means for the future. Connect with fellow leaders, share ideas, and discover new ways to engage your community using cutting-edge tools. Don't miss out on this chance to be part of the conversation shaping tomorrow's ministry!

We will consider:

• How to harness AI to support your ministry
• Ministry adjustments for the pastoral needs of an AI era

Intended for:

Clergy, Lay Ecclesial Ministers, Parish Staff & any disciples seeking to make disciples.

8:30 a.m. – Check-In

9:00 a.m. – Welcome

9:15 a.m. – Keynote

10:15 a.m. – Breakouts

12:05 p.m. – Mass

12:55 p.m. – Lunch

1:45 p.m. – Panel Discussion

2:45 p.m. – Closing Discussion and Remarks

3:30 p.m. – Event Conclusion

Guardrails for AI Use: Safety, Privacy, and Data Security

Not all AI tools are created equal and using them without discernment carries real risks — to privacy, to institutional integrity, and to the people we serve. This session examines the key safety and security concerns ministry leaders should understand and offers practical guardrails for engaging AI tools responsibly.

AI and Mission: Practical Tools and Pastoral Wisdom for Parishes and Schools

Artificial intelligence is already reshaping how people learn, work, and relate, and our parishes and schools are not immune. But the question is no longer if we engage AI, but how we do it using the wisdom from the Church with confidence and hope,This session moves beyond theory into practice. Together, we’ll explore real use cases of AI in ministry, and how leaders can begin integrating these tools today—through small experiments, collaborative learning, and ongoing iteration.At the same time, we’ll examine what AI cannot replace: human presence, accompaniment, and the life of the sacraments. As AI becomes more embedded in daily life, the Church is uniquely positioned to respond with deeper, in-person ministry.

Following Leo's Lead on AI

Pope Leo XIV has spoken directly about artificial intelligence, and his words deserve careful attention. This session offers a theological unpacking of his key statements on AI — what they affirm, what they caution against, and what they ask of Catholics engaging with these technologies.

The Psychological Impact of Chatbot Use

AI chatbots are increasingly part of how people — especially young people — process information, seek advice, and even find companionship. This session examines what the research and clinical experience tell us about the psychological effects of chatbot use, and what that means for pastoral care.

Demystifying AI: What is AI and where do I start?

In this session, we will approach AI from a foundational level, building an understanding of what the technology is. Based on this fundamental understanding, we will explore practical starting points for how people in ministry roles can begin to leverage AI to assist and augment their work.

The Next Year of AI – Where We’re Going

Where is artificial intelligence heading, and what does that mean for Catholic ministry? This session offers a forward-looking forecast of AI development to help ministry leaders think strategically — not just about the tools available today, but about what's coming and how to prepare.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Sacred Heart Major Seminary, 2701 Chicago Blvd, Detroit, United States

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.

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