Use this policy template to provide guidance regarding any uses of artificial intelligence within church work
Disclaimer
This template is provided by Church Law & Tax and Gloo for informational and general guidance purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and Church Law & Tax and Gloo are not law firms. No attorney-client relationship is created by your use of this template.
Laws and regulations governing artificial intelligence, data privacy, employment, and related matters vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. This template is not tailored to the specific circumstances, legal obligations, or operational needs of any particular church or religious organization.
Church Law & Tax and Gloo make no representations or warranties, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or legal sufficiency of this template. Use of this template is at your own risk. Church Law & Tax and Gloo shall not be liable for any damages, losses, or liabilities arising from your use of, or reliance on, this template.
This template reflects general guidance as of the date of publication and may not account for developments in law or technology occurring after that date.
When to Use This Template
- To create a workplace culture demonstrating commitments to biblical integrity, and legal, ethical, and responsible uses of artificial intelligence (AI)
- To provide acceptable and unacceptable uses of AI for church work, including examples
- To establish an ongoing process for church leaders to examine current and potential AI uses and potential policy changes as AI and the legal landscape surrounding it continue to evolve
How to Use This Template
- Review this template with qualified legal counsel familiar with applicable federal, state, and local laws, as well as the specific laws governing nonprofit and religious organizations in your jurisdiction
- Consult with relevant advisors (including HR, finance, and technology professionals) as appropriate
- Customize bracketed sections of this template to reflect your church’s actual practices, structure, and values
- Approve through a process consistent with your church’s governing bylaws, such as a board-approved action
- Communicate to all personnel
- Apply consistently
- Review at least once a year and amend as needed
Best For
- Church Board
- Technology Committee
- Church IT Leader/Department
- Executive Pastor
Editor’s Note
Churches often handle sensitive or confidential information. Examples of sensitive or confidential information include, but are not limited to, pastoral care records, prayer requests, information about children and youth, employment-related matters, donor information, membership records, volunteer screening data, disciplinary matters, family crisis details, and financial assistance request details.
Some churches locally store the information. Others store it in cloud-based arrangements, typically through enterprise agreements with third-party providers that include provisions regarding related protections. This policy template should be customized to align with a church’s existing practices, including related safeguards and protections associated with sensitive or confidential information.
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