The Cost of AI

Generative AI is changing how many organisations create and share content. For churches, especially those running parish Facebook pages or putting together newsletters and posters, these tools can look very appealing. They are fast, usually free, and can produce eye catching images in seconds. But using AI generated images is not always straightforward. As Christians called to stewardship, justice, and integrity, it is worth pausing to think carefully about how, and whether, we use them.

One key concern is environmental impact. Making AI images uses far more electricity and water than many people realise, often much more than a simple online search. For a Church that has committed itself to Net Zero and to caring for God’s creation, this matters. Every digital choice has an environmental cost. Whether we are printing fewer magazines or generating images online, our actions still leave a footprint. Being good stewards means noticing those hidden costs and taking them seriously.

There are also questions about fairness and respect for human creativity. Many artists are uneasy about how AI image tools are trained, often using large amounts of online artwork without clear permission or credit. For those whose work has been absorbed into these systems, it can feel like their creativity has been taken rather than honoured. The Church has long spoken about the dignity of human work and the importance of creative gifts, so this is an area where we should listen carefully and act with care.

Another issue is how AI use is perceived. Even when churches use these tools thoughtfully, not everyone will feel comfortable with them. Some people associate AI with job losses, misinformation, or the loss of something genuinely human. A well meaning parish post or poster created with AI might unintentionally put people off or raise concerns. For a Church that values trust and openness, how things look can be just as important as our intentions.

This does not mean that AI has no role at all in church communications. As the diocesan response has noted, AI is increasingly part of everyday life, and there are responsible ways to use it. But it does suggest the need for care and balance. Simple steps can help, such as choosing ethically sourced images, supporting local artists where possible, using platforms that rely on licensed content, and being open about when AI has been used.

Above all, this is an opportunity to reflect on how our digital habits line up with our Christian values. Creativity, stewardship, justice, and respect for others should guide our decisions. AI can be a powerful tool, but it is not neutral. As we navigate these changes, we are called to do so thoughtfully, humbly, and with a deep concern for both God’s creation and the people who share it.

Harriet Roberts

Director of Communications

What’s your view on AI? Email comms@chester.anglican.org