I wonder how you feel about new technologies and innovation.
Sometimes it can feel scary to think of what might be possible with the power of technology or when we contemplate the pace of advancements going on all around about us. Yet if we think about the technologies that many of us use every day, that only a few short years ago seemed impossible, such as, messaging apps, mobile banking, air fryers and social media to name just a few.
Today’s generation of course are well accustomed to and perhaps even welcome such advancements. They often see the opportunities to improve lives through new technology, that could include the unrestricted sharing of information to the reductions in ‘greenhouse gasses’ that newer and ever advancing technologies can provide.
Like me, you probably have some awareness of the developments of AI* technology and maybe you have begun to dabble with it yourself? Maybe you have even heard a sermon that was at least in part generated by AI? YES, believe it or not such tools do exist to help preachers and youth and children’s leaders and just maybe you have heard a sermon that was part AI generated without even knowing it! I was only recently made aware of an AI Academy being offered by an International Children’s Ministry group and I have signed up to see what more I can learn through this worldwide collaboration project. I may well keep you posted.
It reminded me of the ever-present existence of change, it is one of the three things can be relied upon alongside death and taxes. A recent study has just been published looking into the current situation in mission and ministry with children and young people in the UK Church. It is an interesting read, and the recommendations offer us an opportunity to reflect on the experiences shared and to make any changes necessary to enable this and future generations to encounter Jesus. The ‘Taking the Pulse’ research report is now available to download online.
Richard Knott, CYDO
*No part of this article was generated by AI, although I have little doubt that it could have been.