Becoming Ourselves With AI

November 17, 2026

AI is constantly in the news, and most of what we hear is unsettling. Some of the people building it are now asking whether it should be built more slowly. On Tuesday, November 17, we are setting aside an hour to talk about AI together. Becoming Ourselves with AI is a conversation, not a tutorial. No demos, nothing to download and no homework. It is a chance to sit with each other and ask better questions about a technology that has already arrived in our homes, work, school and church, whether we invited it or not.

Curt Hammond will host the hour. Many of you know Curt from here at Hope Springs. In his working life, he helps leaders ask better questions about technology, culture and service through his company, Four Simple Words. He will tell you plainly that most of the work he does for this congregation would not be happening without AI. And he will be clear about why that worries him.

Most of what we read about in the media is what Curt refers to as ‘efficiency AI’, which in its simplest form is doing more with less. The question Curt finds more interesting is Who am I becoming with AI? That is the question that can lead to thinking about ‘opportunity AI ’, which is more fruitful for faith leaders reimagining what it means to be church in 2026.

Be ready for an hour of conversation with more questions than answers. It will be a time to explore your own reflections about this mysterious, powerful, scary and promising tool. Bring your curiosity, worry and questions.

Tuesday, November 17

2:00 to 3:00 pm in the Bissell Room

Everyone is welcome, including friends and neighbours outside our congregation. Please let the office know you are coming so we can be sure we are in a big enough room.   communications@hopespringsunited.ca