The Black Church in the Age of A.I.

IN 1980, A GROUP CALLED THE BUGGLES RECOGNIZED THAT VIDEO KILLED THE RADIO STAR. IF VIDEO WAS THAT DEADLY, WHO WILL A.I. TAKE OUT?

When Thomas Dorsey infused blues rhythms and jazz improvisation with Christian lyrics, a new musical genre was born. Gospel music became the sound that energized Black congregations and enlivened a migrating population. However, it took time for Black clergy to warm up to Dorsey’s new “invention.” Initially, Gospel music experienced a hostile reception, as many Black preachers considered it to be profane and irreverent— some even referred to it as “devil’s music.” The tide didn’t turn for Gospel music until Black pastors recognized the utilitarian value of the genre.

Lay people loved the music. People flocked to “Gospel music-adopting” churches to hear it. So, the icy reception eventually turned warm, after Black pastors understood the benefits that accompanied embracing the genre. Similarly, the COVID pandemic proved to be a paradigm-shifting event for Black churches. Pastors who were previously ambivalent or opposed to using technology found themselves scurrying to learn how to live-stream and Zoom chat. Even rigid pastors, who considered technology to be the inevitable gateway to vice, were forced to create Facebook and Restream accounts. As beneficial trends develop, the Black Church has often been reactionary rather than trailblazing. Could we be in danger of continuing this tendency into the 21st century?

We are on the precipice of yet another technological revolution. A.I. is ushering the Black Church into another watershed moment. What are the benefits of this technology? How can A.I. assist in ministry? What are some potential pitfalls of this technology? How can AI be utilized today to enhance our congregations?

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