Ryan Kirchoff
Tuesday, Jan 24
3:15 – 4:30 pm
Embracing Tools, Avoiding Traps
Artificial Intelligence (AI) isn’t a future possibility; it’s today’s reality. From writing e-mails and planning lessons to generating graphics and analyzing ministry data, AI is already reshaping how people work and serve. But how should the church respond?
This breakout session invites pastors, teachers, digital ministry leaders, and lay members to explore AI with gospel-centered discernment and active participation. Rather than asking if we should use AI, we’ll focus on how to use it wisely, ethically, and faithfully. Through discussion, reflection, and real-life examples, we’ll consider both the practical ministry opportunities and the potential pitfalls that come with these powerful tools.
This is not a lecture or tech tutorial; it’s a conversation. Participants will collaborate, share questions, and leave with a tangible framework to help evaluate if AI tools are serving the mission of their ministry without undermining it. The tone will be hopeful, not naïve, and practical, not alarmist, as we discover ways to equip leaders to use AI thoughtfully in their unique ministry settings.
Ryan Kirchoff serves as instructional coordinator at Fox Valley Lutheran High School and as a lead educational consultant for Blueprint Schools. In the past he has served as director of curriculum and instruction for the Pre-K–12th program at Divine Savior Academy in Doral, Fla., and as athletic director at California Lutheran High School in Wildomar, Calif. He is passionate about student learning, helping school ministries develop Professional Learning Communities (PLCs), and using AI to equip and empower teachers (check out his ChatGPT for Teachers course!). Ryan holds a master’s in curriculum and instruction and a bachelor’s in education.


