Churches Embrace Technology, But Move Cautiously Amid AI Concerns
NEW YORK — Church leaders across the United States are increasingly embracing technology as a vital part of ministry — even as concerns about authenticity, privacy and spiritual impact continue to shape how digital tools are used, according to a new report.
The study — part of an ongoing State of the Church initiative by the Barna Group in partnership with church management software Pushpay — paints a picture of a church landscape in transition and one where digital innovation is widely seen as an opportunity for growth, but with potential significant risks.
Nearly all the 1,300 church leaders surveyed said they view digital tools as beneficial for ministry, with 95% expressing at least some level of agreement. A majority — an astonishing 78% — said technology makes ministry easier, while 44% identified it as an important part of their church’s future strategy.
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Still, most churches are not racing to become techies. Only 9% of church leaders said they aspire to lead in technological innovation, reflecting a broader preference for cautious integration rather than rapid change.
Differences also emerged within church leadership. Staff members, the report said, tend to be more enthusiastic than pastors, particularly when it comes to the role of technology during worship. Meanwhile, larger churches — especially those with budgets exceeding $5 million — said they are more likely to pursue ambitious digital strategies.
“We’re at a critical moment for technology in the church,” said David Kinnaman, CEO of Barna Group. “Leaders need both caution and creativity as they navigate this new digital context. Relationships and in-person faith formation remain essential, but the research with Pushpay shows that technology can also strengthen ministry.”
Rising concerns over AI
As artificial intelligence tools gain traction, church leaders are grappling with new theological questions.
More than 80% said they expressed concern about data privacy, while roughly half worry about maintaining the integrity and authenticity of their message. Nearly four in 10 said they fear AI could eventually displace elements of spiritual guidance.
Despite such concerns, adoption is already underway. A third of churches report using AI tools, primarily for content creation, graphic design and sermons. On an individual level, 60% of leaders said they use AI at least occasionally.
This comes as churches today rely heavily on digital platforms for communication and administrative work. Social media, online giving, livestreaming and management software have become nearly universal.
When evaluating new technologies, the report said church leaders prioritize ease of use, affordability and security. Data collection tends to focus on measurable indicators such as giving, baptisms and membership, while deeper forms of engagement — like spiritual growth — are harder to quantify.
High-tech engagement
A subset of churches — about 25% — are taking a more integrated approach, embedding technology into worship and community life.
The study said church leaders see higher engagement among younger generations, including Gen Z (51%) and Millennials (47%), and report greater overall connection. Many also said they believe technology is helping deepen faith and spiritual reliance.
By contrast, churches that take a less intentional approach to technology report weaker results across these areas.
The findings suggest that churches are moving beyond simply adopting technology toward a more strategic question: How can digital tools best serve their mission?
“The most vibrant ministries I visit share something in common,” said Kenny Wyatt, CEO of Pushpay. “Their technology isn’t just running in the background, it’s woven into how they disciple. The new missional technology metric we developed with Barna confirms that missional alignment matters more than tech adoption.”
For now, churches continue to integrate technology into their everyday life, but what the future holds remains an open question.
Clemente Lisi is executive editor at Religion Unplugged.