This comprehensive workshop is your opportunity to explore the vast possibilities of AI and Large Language Models (LLMs) in enhancing your ministry’s reach and depth. With a mix of pre-recorded sessions and live interactions, as well as a private group communications Slack channel for continued growth and communication with your other workshop participants, you’ll be able to network and grow as a group.
Prerequisites:
As this is an advanced workshop, we suggest familiarity with LLM technologies and platforms like ChatGPT, Claud, Anthropic, etc. You can either learn from our “Harnessing AI for Church Excellence” series, or your own online sources as long as they help you gain a foundation of the basics of LLM and generative technologies.
Registration limited to 75 participants.
Earn 1 Continuing Education Credit (CEU) for dedicating 10 hours across a comprehensive three-week schedule.
Scholarships available:Contact shughes@umcdiscipleship.org for need-based assistance.
Course Outline
Six week workshop – August 25 through October 7
5 sessions plus elective sessions and community workspace involvement on Slack.
- Slack Workspace Opens to participants
August 25 - Introduction and Welcome (Live Session)
August 26, 11 AM – 12 PM (CT) - Lesson 1: Advanced Prompting and Personal Productivity (Pre-Recorded)
Begins August 26
Homework time expectation: 45min-1.5 hours
Homework due: September 2 by 11 AM (CT) - Lesson 2: Strategic AI Integration & Ethical Frameworks (Pre-Recorded)
Begins September 2
Homework time expectation: 45 minutes – 1.5 hours
Homework due September 10 by 11AM (CT) - Lesson 3: AI for Ministry Tasks (Live Session)
September 9, 11 AM – 12 PM (CT)
No homework, begin to ideate your final AI Project - Lesson 4: Implementing Your AI Project (Live Session)
September 16, 11 AM – 12 PM (CT)
Homework time expectation: 1-2 hours
Homework due October 7, 11 AM (CT) - AI Project Examination and Farewell (Live Session)
October 7, 11 AM – 12 PM (CT)
Testimonials
“I think the class has 100% been worth the value! I have learned so much and am just not as afraid to try/play around with LLMs. Learning how to give SOLID prompts is priceless.” – Jessica Campbell – Kevin Little
“I am seeing more ways I can use AI to help me refine my work and to clear up some headspace to focus on other activities that I need to be present for (i.e. pastoral care visits, community meetings). I have already received a very big ‘bang for my buck.’” – Dr. Felicia LaBoy
“Definitely helpful to think through how to integrate AI into everyday tasks.” – Jonathan Ruch
“I wanted to express how much I am enjoying the work and finding great value in this course. Thank you for offering it.” – Russel Morrow
