What’s the Church’s Relevance in an AI-Centric Future?

As Australian culture becomes more secular, the future of the Church remains a key area of reflection for leaders and communities of faith.

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Social researcher Mark McCrindle has been analysing how the Church can respond to the times we live in, by remaining a source of hope, meaning, and connection in a complex world.

“We’ve got so many disruptions: technological change, global uncertainty and rising secularism,” Mark told Hope 103.2.

“The Church really engaging with society and offering true meaning has never been more important.”

While cultural shifts can feel discouraging for believers, Mark believes they also create new opportunities.

“Technology hasn’t delivered the kind of fulfilment people hoped for,” Mark said.

“The Church really engaging with society and offering true meaning has never been more important.”

“There’s rising scepticism, especially among parents.

“People are looking for something deeper – something that connects beyond commercial interests. That’s where the Church has a unique role to play.”

Mark sees AI and digital tools as part of this opportunity, rather than a threat.

“Christians have always been early adopters of technology – not for the sake of it, but to redeem it for a greater purpose,” Mark said.

Drawing a parallel with the Apostle Paul’s use of Roman roads and ship travel, Mark thinks, “in the 21st century, the internet, apps and AI can serve in spreading the timeless message of the Gospel in relevant ways”.

While cultural shifts can feel discouraging for believers, Mark believes they also create new opportunities.

Despite census figures showing a decline in Christian affiliation from 64% to 44% over 15 years, Mark highlighted a quieter trend that paints a more hopeful picture.

“Over the same period, about 800,000 Australians moved from ‘no religion’ to Christianity,” Mark said.

“There’s real change happening under the surface.”

In fact, young Australians are more open to spiritual conversations than older generations.

“We’re seeing a counter-trend,” Mark said.

“People are looking for something deeper… That’s where the Church has a unique role to play.”

“People are genuinely seeking meaning, and many are exploring Christianity for the first time.”

So what does the future hold for the Church in Australia?

Mark believes it lies in deeply knowing and serving local communities.

“The Church isn’t monolithic,” Mark said.

“Different communities need different approaches.

“If churches engage with their neighbours – especially emerging generations and migrant communities – they’ll see fruit.”

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