How to relate to AI - Part 1
Episode 5: Relating to AI
Summary:
Can we have a relationship with AI? In this episode, we explore the human tendency to anthropomorphize AI, the risks of treating it like a person, and how to stay grounded in using it as a tool that supports ministry, without replacing authentic relationships.
Show Notes:
Topics covered:
Can we have a relationship with AI? In this episode, we explore the human tendency to anthropomorphize AI, the risks of treating it like a person, and how to stay grounded in using it as a tool that supports ministry, without replacing authentic relationships.
Show Notes:
Topics covered:
- Why AI is not a relational being and should be treated as a tool.
- Real-world examples of people forming unhealthy attachments to chatbots.
- The dangers of anthropomorphizing AI, especially for youth and vulnerable users.
- How to engage AI intentionally and avoid theological or emotional confusion.
- Strategies for using AI in ministry while maintaining emotional and relational boundaries.
Homework:
- Reflect on how you currently use AI.
- Ask: “Does this enhance relationships or replace them?”
- Identify boundaries you may need to set around emotional or theological engagement with AI.
Resources:
- She Is in Love With ChatGPT
- Andy Masley’s article on AI’s environmental impact
- Antiqua et Nova – Catholic Church, Note on the Relationship Between Artificial Intelligence and Human Intelligence
- OpenAI & MIT Media Lab study on AI and loneliness
- https://aichurchtoolkit.com/
- “AI Technology Panic—is AI Dependence Bad for Mental Health? A Cross-Lagged Panel Model and the Mediating Roles of Motivations for AI Use Among Adolescents”
- "Anthropomorphism in AI"
- "AI anthropomorphism and its effect on users' self-congruence and continuance intention"
- “Anthropomorphism in AI: hype and fallacy”
- Teddy Ruxpin
- Max Headroom
Creators and Guests
Host
The Rev. Mercedes Clements
With a unique blend of expertise in technology and ministry, Mercedes Clements brings a forward-thinking approach to her work in the Church. Before entering ordained ministry, Mercedes built a successful career in IT management, strategic systems design, and compliance. Now serving as an Episcopal priest, she draws on her technical background to explore innovative ways technology, including AI, can support and enhance ministry. As the co-host of the AI Church Toolkit Podcast, Mercedes combines her passion for faith, systems thinking, and collaboration to equip church leaders with practical tools for navigating the evolving digital landscape while staying rooted in the mission of the Church.
Host
The Rev. Peter Levenstrong
Peter Levenstrong is the Associate Rector at St. Gregory of Nyssa Episcopal Church in San Francisco, a vibrant congregation known for its liturgical creativity, intergenerational worship, and radical hospitality. With a passion for blending ancient traditions with innovative practices, Peter is dedicated to helping church leaders navigate the complexities of ministry in the digital age. As a co-host of the AI Church Toolkit Podcast, Peter believes in the opportunities created by AI to deepen, not replace, human relationships. His other projects include Living Stories Sermons, a participatory preaching model that is all about human connection and communion; yet much of the content is made possible by the use of AI. Grounded in his commitment to community and inclusion, Peter believes that when thoughtfully applied, technology can deepen relationships and expand the Church’s mission in transformative ways.
