Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing how people work, learn, communicate and make decisions. It is already reshaping how we do education, ministry, governance, administration and community services.
Yet many people across our parishes, schools and agencies are still asking a simple question:
What does this mean for the Church?
Exploring AI Together is a practical and accessible learning day designed specifically for the Anglican Church Southern Queensland. Through presentations, discussion and reflection, participants will explore what AI is, how it is already affecting our work, and how we might engage with it wisely, responsibly and faithfully.
The day will be particularly relevant for:
- Clergy and parish leaders
- Parish councillors and wardens
- Synod members
- Members of diocesan commissions and committees
- Anglican school council members
- Anyone interested in how emerging technologies are shaping ministry and society
This is an introductory day
No technical knowledge is required
The day is free
Lunch and Morning Tea is provided
This event is in person only
The day is auspiced by the Social Responsibilities Committee of the Anglican Church Southern Queensland.
Program
9:30–10:00
Welcome and Framing the Day
Dr Stephen Harrison
10:00 – 10:30
Session 1: What AI Actually Is (and Isn’t)
Dr Bek Duyckers
This session provides a clear, non-technical introduction to artificial intelligence. It explores what AI is, what it can and cannot do, and why it is attracting so much attention. Through practical examples and discussion, participants will develop a shared understanding of AI and its potential implications for the Church.
10:30 – 11:00: Morning Tea
11:00–12:00
Session 2: Where AI Is Already Touching Our Work
Dr Bek Duyckers & Dr Stephen Harrison
Artificial intelligence is already influencing many aspects of ministry, education, governance and community services, often in ways that are not immediately obvious. This session explores how AI is shaping the way people communicate, learn, create, organise information, make decisions and support others.
12:00 – 1:00
Session 3: Human, Ethical, and Values Questions
Angie Mooney
As AI becomes more common in everyday life, important questions arise about how it affects people, relationships and decision-making. This session explores the human and ethical dimensions of AI, including its impact on vulnerable people, fairness, accountability, privacy and trust. Participants will reflect on where human judgement, responsibility and care must remain central, and how our values shape the way technology is used.
1:00 – 1:30: Lunch (is included in the day)
1:30–2:15
Session 4: Principles, Policies and Practical Judgement – Using AI Well and Safely
Dr Jason Zagami
This session explores how AI can be used responsibly in ministry, governance, education and community services. Participants will be introduced to a simple framework for deciding when AI can assist, augment or automate tasks, and where human judgement must remain central. Participants will be guided through scenario-based decisions about appropriate, limited and prohibited uses of AI in different contexts.
2:15 – 3:15
Session 5: AI and Faith (Discussion Panel)
- Dr Jason Zagami
- Dr Adam Couchman
- Angie Mooney
Drawing on perspectives from across the church, this panel explores what AI means for Christian understandings of wisdom, human dignity, relationships and vocation. Through discussion and audience questions, participants are invited to reflect on how AI might be engaged faithfully and responsibly in the life and work of the Church.
3:15- 3:30
Closing Reflection and Next Steps
Dr Stephen Harrison
The day concludes with structured reflection to help participants integrate learning into practice.
Lunch and Morning Tea Included
Auspiced by the Social Responsibilities Committee
Anglican Church Southern Queensland