At a recent conference for kids’ ministry workers, a keynote speaker shared on ‘Using AI in Your Ministry.’  AI is a hot topic that has been popping up everywhere.  I discussed its impact with a businesswoman friend who runs a marketing company.  I was sent an email about using AI to create music videos.  When visiting a stock photo website, the number of AI photographs and illustrations has grown considerably.  I must admit to feeling wary.  After all, I’m old enough to have learned to type on a manual typewriter!  But I realised I use an AI-powered writing assistant with every blog and lesson I write, and I’d hate to be without it now. 

In a world where technology seems to sprint ahead daily, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the latest digital trends. But what if some of those advances, especially in artificial intelligence, could serve your ministry? Not replace it. Not dilute it. But support it, enhance it, and help you reach young hearts more effectively.

Smarter Lesson Planning

• AI can suggest age-appropriate Bible stories and memory verses
• Generate creative activity ideas based on your theme (e.g., crafts, games, object lessons)
• Help structure your teaching plan with clear learning outcomes
• Translate complex theological concepts into child-friendly language

Creative Content Generation

• Skits and dialogues for interactive storytelling
• Rhyming memory verse songs
• Short devotionals or prayer prompts for kids
• Visual aids like colouring pages or simple illustrations

Personalised Support for Diverse Needs

I think AI is especially helpful in this area.  Every child is unique. Some are visual learners, others thrive on movement or storytelling. AI can help you:

• Adapt lessons for different learning styles
• Create inclusive materials for children with special needs
• Translate content into other languages for multicultural groups

Organising and Tracking Progress

AI-powered tools can also help with the behind-the-scenes work:

• Track attendance and follow up with families
• Organise volunteer schedules and lesson archives
• Suggest seasonal themes or curriculum pacing
• Analyse feedback to improve engagement

AI as a Ministry Partner, Not a Replacement

As someone who provides lessons for Kid’s Ministry leaders and volunteers, I want people to use what I have created.  But at the end of the day, it’s not a business, and I want every child to hear the good news about Jesus.  But AI can’t do everything.  It can’t pray with a child, sense the Spirit’s prompting, or offer a comforting hug. It doesn’t replace the sacred, relational work of ministry. But it can:

• Lighten your load
• Spark creativity
• Offer fresh ideas when you’re running on empty

As you explore how AI might support your Kid’s Church ministry, stay rooted in prayer and discernment. Use what’s helpful, discard what’s distracting, and always keep the children’s spiritual growth at the centre.

Technology may evolve, but the call remains the same: to lead little ones to Jesus with love, wisdom, and joy.

Moon Base Genesis 2

I’ve written a series about a group of children living on a moon base being taught by an AI school teacher.  What could possibly go wrong?  It’s a five-lesson series about the Bible stories of Creation, The Fall, Cain and Abel, Noah’s Ark and The Tower of Babel. 

Get your free download here: https://cooeekidsministry.com.au/short-stories/moon-base-genesis-2/