As a community of missionary disciples we are committed to Pope Francis's challenge to leave the comfort of the shore for encounters on the periphery so that we can experience the transformative joy of God's love. For us that often involves immersion trips to build global solidarity with other communities around the world. Also following the lead of Pope Francis in Laudato Si, we seek encounters with nature in our efforts to care for creation. But what about encountering God in technology, particularly AI. Is that the new frontier for missionary disciples?
Recently I used ChatGPT to write a prayer for our team that was welcoming new members. It produced this:
We gather before You, our hearts open and ready to embrace the transformation that lies ahead. We come together as a Christian community, recognizing the call to be agents of social justice in this world. As new members join us, their passion for equity, compassion, and love for all people sparks a fire within us. We humbly ask for Your guidance and blessing as we embark on this radical journey of reformation.
God of Justice, we pray for courage. Fill our spirits with boldness as we challenge systems of oppression and work towards dismantling injustice. Grant us the strength to confront our own biases and prejudices, and help us to be agents of change within ourselves and our wider community.
Compassionate Creator, we seek wisdom. Open our minds to new perspectives, as we engage in dialogue and listen to the voices of the marginalized. Teach us to speak out against discrimination and to advocate for those who are silenced or ignored. May our actions always be rooted in love and empathy.
Spirit of Unity, we long for solidarity. Unite us in a common purpose to seek justice, recognizing that our differences are a source of strength. Help us to build bridges across divides and foster understanding among diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. May our unity be a testimony of Your transforming power.
God of Healing, we ask for resilience. As we face the challenges that come with pursuing social justice, we know there will be setbacks, weariness, and moments of despair. Grant us the resilience to persevere in the face of adversity, knowing that You are with us, renewing our spirits and providing the strength we need to press forward.
Eternal God, inspire us to action. May our commitment to social justice extend beyond mere words and into tangible deeds. Guide us in the ways we engage with our local community, advocating for the voiceless, serving the marginalized, and working towards a more just and equitable society. Empower us to be instruments of Your peace.
In this time of reforming as a community, O God, we surrender ourselves to Your transformative work. Renew our minds, challenge our assumptions, and shape us into a community that reflects Your love, justice, and compassion. May our commitment to social justice be a testament to Your kingdom unfolding on Earth.
We offer this prayer in faith, trusting in Your ever-present guidance. Amen.
After using that prayer at our gathering, without telling the team who the author was, I asked them to rate the prayer. They gave it an average of 8 out of 10. That was an impressive rating from a group of ministers who hold themselves to a high standard when it comes to writing prayers and producing mission education resources. When they found out the identity of the author they were quite surprised; and maybe a little bit worried.
We had an interesting discussion about the emerging role and impact of AI in spirituality and our ministry. It will be interesting to hear what theologians will be saying as it continues to develop...and evolve. But our immediate take away was this: as communities of missionary disciples trying to read the signs of the times and putting ourselves out there to see the new frontiers of encounter, we cannot ignore that AI will be a significant development with new challenges and opportunities for us. Just as it was once thought that science would replace God, I doubt that AI will become the new God, but rather another opportunity for us to better encounter and understand the force of love that is God. And perhaps, a new resource for creating prayer and resources.
