13 real AI policies and guidelines published by denominations, conferences, and dioceses. Each one links to its original source. Summaries are ours; read the source before quoting.
These policies are summarized and linked for reference only. Each belongs to the organization that published it; read the original before quoting or adapting it. If you represent one of these organizations and want an entry corrected or removed, email ashertopia@mail.grokbot.com.
The Algorithm and the Almighty (2026)
Approved by the 227th General Assembly. Calls for clear public disclosure, labeling substantial content "AI-assisted," keeping human moral agency in charge, and never using generative AI as a substitute for exegesis, sermon preparation, or pastoral counseling.
Source: Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), The Algorithm and the Almighty (2026)AI Guidelines (May 2026)
Covers clergy, laity, staff, volunteers, and committees. Defines covered AI (text, images, agents, chat), calls for training on major tools, sets criteria for choosing tools, and acknowledges AI's environmental cost.
Source: Tennessee-Western Kentucky Conference, UMC, AI Guidelines (May 2026)Interim AI Guidance
Task force interim principles: pastoral confidences, financial, health, and personal data must not go into public AI tools. AI must not replace pastoral care, sacraments, or the spoken sermon. Local bodies may set stricter rules.
Source: Virginia Conference, UMC, Interim AI GuidanceAI Task Force 2026 Report
A Wesleyan analysis that urges caution about AI in preaching and teaching and encourages congregations to build relationships with gifted people rather than replacing them with AI.
Source: Michigan Conference, UMC, AI Task Force 2026 ReportConference 2026 report on Artificial Intelligence
AI may support preparation, organization, and administration but AI tools "do not exercise ministry in themselves." Stresses careful handling of personal data, justice and environmental impact, and training over rigid rules.
Source: The Methodist Church in Britain, Conference 2026 report on Artificial IntelligenceAI and ELCA Social Teaching (2026)
A foundational paper that applies existing ELCA social teaching to AI: justice, wisdom, human participation, and the precautionary principle. It is a framework, not a staff policy.
Source: Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, AI and ELCA Social Teaching (2026)Artificial Intelligence: An Evangelical Statement of Principles
Affirmations and denials grounded in the image of God: AI is a tool under human moral responsibility and must not be used in ways that devalue people. Useful theological footing for evangelical policies.
Source: Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission (SBC), Artificial Intelligence: An Evangelical Statement of PrinciplesArchdiocesan AI Policy for Parishes and Schools (2026)
Every AI tool needs documented local approval after a written request, licensing and vendor review, a privacy and security assessment, and a mission-alignment check. A strong model for tool-approval workflows.
Source: Archdiocese of Seattle, Archdiocesan AI Policy for Parishes and Schools (2026)Generative AI Use Policy (Admin Handbook Section 10.10)
Applies to everyone working, volunteering, or ministering. Requires work email accounts for AI tools, prior approval for non-provided tools, and prohibits infringing privacy or copyright.
Source: Archdiocese of Los Angeles, Generative AI Use Policy (Admin Handbook Section 10.10)General Handbook guidance on AI (Dec 2025)
AI cannot replace inspired preparation of talks, lessons, or prayers but can help with research, editing, and translation. Leaders shouldn't rely on AI for sensitive advice, and member data stays out of unmanaged tools.
Source: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, General Handbook guidance on AI (Dec 2025)Generative AI Guidance
Practical guidance for staff, ministers, elders, volunteers, and local churches. Protect pastoral and safeguarding data, keep humans reviewing output, and be transparent when AI meaningfully contributed to sermons, liturgy, or public communications.
Source: United Reformed Church (UK), Generative AI GuidanceAI Guidance for Parishes
Parish-level resources: AI policy guidance for PCCs, an employee AI usage policy you may adapt, an account setup guide, and a quick-reference checklist.
Source: Diocese of York (Church of England), AI Guidance for ParishesUse of AI in WCC Communications
A human must review all AI content before publishing. Cite AI tools used for significant content, review AI translations, and never enter information "you would not share with a stranger in the street."
Source: World Council of Churches, Use of AI in WCC CommunicationsKnow of a published church AI policy we should add? Email ashertopia@mail.grokbot.com. Last checked October 2026.
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