As churches increasingly embrace digital tools, accessibility remains a vital part of inclusive ministry. One of the most promising developments in recent years is the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to help make worship and online content more accessible for people with disabilities or language barriers.
AI is not a replacement for thoughtful, compassionate ministry, but it can serve as a powerful assistant. With the right tools and practices, even small churches can make meaningful strides toward a more inclusive digital presence.
1. Real-time captioning for worship and events
AI-powered captioning tools like Otter.ai, Microsoft Teams or YouTube Live can automatically generate real-time captions during sermons, Bible studies and live-streamed events. These tools help people who are deaf or hard of hearing follow along, especially when professional captioning services are not feasible. After the fact, you can utilize tools like TurboScribe for pulling transcription of audio to add captions to a video you'd like to post on social media. (We like that their free version allows 3 transcripts per day)
Tip: Always review captions afterward as AI-generated text can contain errors. Posting a corrected transcript can help extend the value of your message.
2. Automatic language translation
For congregations with multilingual members, AI translation services such as Google Translate or DeepL can help bridge communication gaps. You can offer translated versions of newsletters, worship bulletins or sermon summaries to serve more members effectively.
Tip: While AI translation is improving, it is not perfect. Whenever possible, involve a fluent speaker to review translated materials for clarity and cultural appropriateness.
3. AI-enhanced audio descriptions and voiceovers
AI tools like Descript or ElevenLabs can generate voiceovers and audio descriptions for videos and presentations. This can help visually impaired members engage more fully with online content. Adding descriptive audio of worship spaces or special events can also make people feel more included before they arrive in person.
4. Improved web accessibility
Some AI services can analyze your church website and suggest improvements to make it more accessible. Tools like accessiBe or UserWay offer automated suggestions for contrast ratios, font sizes and keyboard navigation. These enhancements make your site easier to use for everyone.
Tip: Accessibility audits can reveal key issues. Read our MyCom article on W3C compliance and create a checklist for your church.
5. AI chatbots for immediate support
AI chatbots, when used thoughtfully, can assist with answering common questions on your website such as service times, directions or livestream access. This can be especially helpful for people who may be hesitant to call or who need information in a different language or format.
A ministry of inclusion
The goal of using AI in ministry is not efficiency alone, it is also hospitality. When we leverage these tools to reduce barriers, we reflect Christ’s inclusive love and ensure all people can participate fully in the life of the church.