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Morning Reflection for the Season after Pentecost
July 11, 2026
Reflection: Jo Ann B. Jones
In an article entitled “Offloading Ourselves” published in the Summer 2026 issue of The New Atlantis, the following quote from Hamlet was used:
What piece of work is a man, how noble in reason, how infinite is faculties, in form and moving how express and admirable; in action how like an angel, in apprehension how like a god; the beauty of the world, the paragon of animals - and yet, to me, what is this quintessence of dust?
This was followed by the direct question: What does it mean to be human?
What inspired this article is the growing use and effect of artificial intelligence on human beings. The article questioned the trade offs made in embracing AI for its efficiency and advantages. It laid bare this question: what will we care about? If it is the final outcome AI offers, then the question is: efficient to what end?
While the use of AI may result in one becoming more introspective, thoughtful in one’s writings, and more polished in delivery and stronger in the performance of one’s vocation, those of us who are clergy must consider that AI does not have the requisite respect for the canon of religious writing and thought. The constant use of it may prevent future generations from contributing to a common life of questioning and reasoning together. The Episcopal Church has faced any number of very deep disagreements over a host of basic issues fundamental to the beliefs of Christians. Who will we be as human beings if AI takes precedence over the holding to what may be considered basic Christian beliefs? And when we disagree, how will we navigate our disagreements to reach resolution?
I must say that the frightening prospect for me is that some formulation of Christian belief would reach the floor of some General Convention and that the entire debate would be framed and almost adjudicated by AI, rendering whatever effect the belief of bishops, priests, deacons and lay people would have left to the dustbin of religious history and Ai would seize ecclesiastical authority. For while difficult indeed, as some of the debates have been that have challenged the Church to maintain unity and yet take the time, effort and humility, through prayer too work together to resolve is valuable. Certainly for some, the waiting for such resolution has been costly - think here the Church’s position re: slavery, the ordination of women and homosexuality. It was important to render that which is Caesar to Caesar that which is Caesar’s and to God, that which is God’s. Many were disappointed and disaffected. Some left. Some stayed. Yet the Episcopal Church had to reckon based on Scripture, Reason and Tradition. AI cannot replace those guiding features of our Church.
Closing Prayer
Almighty God, you have built your Church upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief cornerstone. Grant us so to be joined together in unity of spirit by their teaching, that we may be made a holy temple acceptable to you; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
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