ChatGPT on Stewardship: A.I. Tips!

Just for fun, I asked the Artificial Intelligence (AI) engine ChatGPT to answer a question about congregational stewardship. I think it did pretty well – should I worry about my job? 

Here is what I asked; the answer is below:

Explain the best strategies for congregational stewardship.

“Congregational stewardship refers to the responsible and intentional management of the resources and gifts within a religious community. It involves fostering a culture of generosity, financial responsibility, and wise stewardship of time, talents, and financial contributions. Here are some best strategies for congregational stewardship:

1. Educate and Communicate: Provide ongoing education and communication about the importance of stewardship to the congregation. Help members understand the biblical principles of stewardship and how their contributions support the mission and work of the community. [Note: Clearly not a UU AI!]
2. Lead by Example: The leadership, including clergy and staff, should lead by example in demonstrating good stewardship practices. This includes consistent financial support, active involvement in the community, and transparent financial reporting.
3. Emphasize Gratitude: Foster an atmosphere of gratitude by regularly expressing appreciation for the contributions of time, talent, and treasure from the congregation. Show gratitude for all forms of giving, not just financial, and recognize the impact of each person’s contributions.
4. Create a Clear Vision: Develop a clear vision and mission for the community and communicate it effectively. When people understand the purpose and goals of the community, they are more likely to invest their resources and energy in support.
5. Offer Multiple Giving Opportunities: Provide various options for giving, such as regular tithes and offerings, special campaigns, planned giving, and volunteering time and skills. Giving options should be flexible and convenient, including online giving platforms and automated recurring donations.
6. Encourage Proportional Giving: Encourage congregants to give proportionally based on their income or resources. Teach the concept of the tithe (giving 10% of income) as a starting point for generosity and provide guidance on how to make giving decisions based on personal circumstances.
7. Financial Transparency: Practice open and transparent financial management. Provide regular financial reports to the congregation, explaining how the resources are being used and demonstrating accountability.
8. Cultivate Relationships: Build strong relationships within the community, connecting members with one another and with the mission of the congregation. When people feel a sense of belonging and connection, they are more likely to contribute their time, talents, and financial resources.
9. Celebrate Impact: Share stories and testimonies of how the congregation’s work is making a difference in the lives of individuals and the community. Celebrate the positive outcomes and demonstrate the tangible impact of stewardship.
10. Regular Evaluation: Continuously evaluate and assess the effectiveness of stewardship efforts. Seek feedback from the congregation, review financial data, and make adjustments as necessary to ensure that stewardship practices align with the evolving needs and values of the community.

By implementing these strategies, a congregation can cultivate a culture of stewardship, encouraging members to be generous and responsible with their resources, time, and talents to support the community’s mission and make a positive impact.”

ChatGPT did pretty well, don’t you think? Have you used an AI in your congregation? What do you think of it’s potential application? Do you have any concerns or fears about it being used in your congregation? Please comment!