AI Guidance for Parishes

Artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, and Claude are becoming a more common part of everyday life and work. They can be useful for tasks such as drafting communications, generating ideas, summarising information, planning events, and working with documents.

As Christians, we are called to engage thoughtfully with the world around us and to ask how new technologies can serve people, strengthen communities, and support human flourishing. AI brings real opportunities, but it also raises important questions about human dignity, relationships, responsibility, and the kind of society we want to build. As a diocese, we want to help parishes understand both the possibilities and the risks, so they can make informed choices about how, when, and if they use AI, while keeping people, relationships, the environment, and our Christian values at the centre.

Our diocesan AI Working Group brings together clergy and lay people with a wide range of views, experience, and confidence in using AI. The group is helping the diocese consider how AI might be used well, while also thinking carefully about its risks and wider implications.

This page brings together practical guidance and resources to help parishes understand AI and, if they choose to use it, use it safely, thoughtfully, and appropriately.

AI Policy Guidance for PCCs

AI Policy Guidance for PCCs

.docx / 43 KB

As registered charities, Parochial Church Councils (PCCs) are subject to the same legal and ethical responsibilities as other charitable organisations. This includes ensuring that any use of emerging technologies—such as artificial intelligence (AI)—is consistent with their charitable purposes, complies with data protection and safeguarding requirements, and upholds public trust.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Usage Policy for Employees

This policy applies to everyone employed directly by the Diocese of York. It does not formally cover incumbents, PCCs, or anyone employed by a PCC. However, you are welcome to copy and adapt wording from the diocesan policy and guidance to suit your local context.

Guidance for sharing images of children and young people online

There is growing concern about photographs of children being taken from websites and social media and manipulated using artificial intelligence (AI) to create nude, sexualised, or abusive images. The following guidance is aimed at parishes and for parents and carers whose children are involved in church activities.

Getting started with AI: training for parishes

AI Account Setup Guide

PDF / 84 KB

Never used an AI tool before? Our step-by-step guide explains how to create an account and get started.
It includes guidance for ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, and Claude.

Getting started with AI – webinar slides

PDF / 1 MB

Held on 24th August 2026, this introductory webinar was designed to help you get started with using artificial intelligence (AI) confidently and effectively in your church.

AI Resources

Useful organisations

Any questions?

If you have questions about using AI for parish communications or about the resources on this page, please contact the Communications Team at comms@yorkdiocese.org.uk.