Resources for
UU Congregations

AI is reshaping our world at an incredible rate. From the way we communicate and gather information to how we work and make decisions, AI's impact is undeniable. For UU congregations, engaging with AI means not only understanding the technology but also critically reflecting on how it aligns with our shared values. As UUs, we emphasize justice, equity, and compassion, and these principles must guide our response to AI.

AI challenges us to reflect on what it means to be human in a world where machines can think, create, and even predict our behavior. We must explore whether the development and deployment of AI technologies respect human autonomy, dignity, and privacy.

Beyond the ethical considerations, AI can be a practical ally for UU congregations. It has the potential to assist us in organizing and supporting our spiritual missions, from producing the order of service and weekly newsletters to finding hymns and readings and even aiding in writing sermons. By embracing AI, we have the opportunity to expand our capacities while staying true to our core values.

It’s in this interest that we’ve established Unitarian Universalists for Responsible AI (UURAI) and teamed with AI and Faith and Peter Bowden (UU Growth, Outreach & AI) to advance the AI conversation within our faith. We are dedicated to educating UU congregations and individuals about the profound impact of artificial intelligence and neurotechnologies on society and the world. We aim to foster thoughtful dialogue rooted in UU principles of justice, equity, and compassion while promoting the ethical and responsible development of AI.

Toward Action and Advocacy

To thoughtfully engage UU congregations with AI, we propose a phased approach that builds awareness, fosters dialogue, and moves towards action and advocacy. Below is an overview of the approach:

Build Awareness

  • Establish an AI 'point person' in each congregation to serve as a resource and coordinator for AI initiatives.

  • Host informal meet-ups and AI-themed small groups to introduce members to AI and its implications.

  • Create resource libraries, both digital and physical, that congregants can use to learn more about AI.

  • Share UURAI content in congregational newsletters and on social media to reach a wider audience.

  • Offer introductory workshops on AI concepts to help congregants understand what AI is and how it works.


Foster Dialogue

  • Facilitate small group discussions on specific AI topics, focusing on ethical, social, and theological dimensions.

  • Participate in "AI and the Human" conversations hosted via Zoom to engage with the broader UU community.

  • Host guest speaker events featuring experts in AI ethics and theology to provide deeper insights.

  • Integrate discussions on AI into existing meetings and programs, such as social justice initiatives and book clubs.

  • Develop thematic sermons that explore AI ethics, technomorality, and the intersection of technology and spirituality.

  • Organize forums and town halls to discuss AI's impact on society, inviting participation from all congregants.


Move Towards Action and Advocacy

  • Educate congregants on AI policy issues and encourage advocacy efforts that align with UU principles.

  • Collaborate with both faith-based and secular organizations working on ethical AI to amplify our impact.

  • Support initiatives that use AI for social good, such as projects that enhance equity, access, and community well-being.


Build Long-Term Support

  • Collaborate with UUA leadership to integrate AI initiatives into broader UU goals, ensuring alignment with our values.

  • Develop partnerships with other faith communities to advocate for ethical AI use on a larger scale.

  • Create ongoing programs and initiatives to sustain congregational attention to evolving AI issues, keeping the conversation alive.

Next Steps

To continue building on our AI engagement, we are taking the following steps:

  • Continue to develop this Resource Guide for UU Congregations: This guide will provide detailed support for congregations at every phase of engagement, from awareness-building to advocacy.

  • Develop Introductory Videos: Create accessible videos that introduce key AI concepts and how they relate to UU values, making the information more digestible for all congregants.

  • Establish Weekly Zoom Meetings: Hold regular meetings every Thursday at noon EST to discuss AI topics, share insights, and foster a sense of community around these conversations.

  • Propose Collaboration with UU World: Work with UU World and "AI and Faith" to develop an AI-themed issue, helping to broaden the conversation within the wider UU community.