I often use NPR as "background noise" through the night. It successfully masks the sound of the busy street in front of the manse, and the steady lull of the voices act as an "adult lullaby" so long as the volume is low enough to not articulate the words. And yes, I contribute to a number of NPR all-talk stations to help pay for this very important service.
The downside of having NPR One play all night long is that sometimes these stories find their way into my nocturnal brain-weavings: Dreams. Last night I was sure it was merely a dream. I made use of an online AI tool o write my annual pastor's report for the church's annual report.
Upon reflection this morning, I realized that something in the news must have spurned this dream. So after worship this morning, I looked around on the NPR site and found this article. Clicking through the links, I happened upon the source site. The AI software is called ChapGPI. Curious, I entered these words in the chat box: Write a 250 word end of the year report for a pastor.
Here is the result:
It has been an eventful and challenging year for our church community, but I am grateful for the ways in which God has sustained and blessed us.
As we reflect on the past year, one of the highlights has been the opportunity to connect with our members through online services and small group meetings. While we have missed the in-person fellowship and worship, we have been able to stay connected and support one another through these virtual platforms.
Another highlight has been the growth and development of our youth ministry. We have seen an increase in attendance and involvement from our young people, and it has been a joy to watch them grow in their faith and serve in various roles within the church.
We have also been able to reach out to our community through various service projects and outreach events. This year, we were able to partner with a local food bank and collect donations for families in need. We also held a community-wide Easter egg hunt and a Thanksgiving dinner for those who were alone or in need of a warm meal.
As we look ahead to the new year, we are prayerfully considering how we can continue to minister to our church and community in meaningful ways. We are grateful for the support and partnership of our members, and we are looking forward to all that God has in store for us in the coming year.
I am thankful for the privilege of serving as your pastor, and I am grateful for the ways in which you have supported and encouraged me in my role. May God bless you and your families as we close out this year and look forward to all that he has in store for us in the future. In His Service, [Your Name]
While the level of vocabulary and the style of writing are elementary, I am impressed at the scope of this Chatbot's ability.
But I thought I'd challenge it further. So I wrote this in the request box: Write a 250 word Feminist Theological reflection on the Magnificat.
And here is the response.
The Magnificat, also known as the Song of Mary, is a hymn of praise and thanksgiving found in the Gospel of Luke. In this song, Mary, the mother of Jesus, declares that God has done great things for her and has lifted her up from her humble state. She sings, "He has filled the hungry with good things and sent the rich away empty" (Luke 1:53).
As a feminist theologian, I am struck by the way in which Mary's song challenges the systems of power and oppression that have historically marginalized and oppressed women. Mary's words speak to the reality that God is a God of justice and righteousness, and that he favors the poor and marginalized over the rich and powerful. This message is particularly relevant in a world where women, especially women of color and those living in poverty, often face discrimination and injustice.
Furthermore, Mary's song affirms the value and dignity of all people, regardless of their social status or circumstances. She declares that God has "looked on the humble estate of his servant" and has "exalted those of humble estate" (Luke 1:48). This message challenges the societal norms and cultural expectations that often place value on wealth, power, and status.
In a world that often tells us that we are not enough or that our worth is determined by our achievements or material possessions, Mary's song reminds us that our worth and value come from God, who loves and cherishes us just as we are. As we reflect on the Magnificat, let us be inspired by Mary's example of humility, faith, and trust in God, and let us stand with her in declaring that God is a God of justice and mercy for all people.
By now I had a tingling running up my spine and down to my gut. This is AI doing my job -- and it's not half bad at it. Is my role becoming obsolete? It would seem that Artificial Intelligence has come a long way toward making that so.
But can it be pastoral? Can it respond with comfort and hope? The short answer is no. While AI can produce combinations of words that are appropriate, it cannot produce the vocal intonations, it cannot reach out with gentle touch or a hug. AI cannot be present with one in joy, pain, or uncertainty.
