Introduction

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools are transforming the way we work. They have the potential to automate tasks, improve decision-making, and provide valuable insights into our operations.

However, the use of AI tools also presents new challenges in terms of information security and data protection. This policy is a guide for employees and field leaders on how to be safe and secure when using AI tools, especially when it involves the sharing of potentially sensitive ministry and participant information.

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that Community Bible Study (CBS) uses AI tools in a secure, responsible, and confidential manner. This policy outlines the requirements that CBS must follow when using AI tools, including the evaluation of security risks and the protection of confidential data.

Policy Statement

Community Bible Study recognizes that the use of AI tools has inherent risk. Therefore, CBS is committed to protecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of all ministry and participant data. This policy requires all employees and field leaders to use AI tools in a manner consistent with CBS’s security best practices.

Security Best Practices

All employees and field leaders are expected to adhere to the following security best practices when using AI tools:

  1. Evaluation of AI tools: Employees and field leaders must evaluate the security of any AI tool before using it. This includes reviewing the tool’s security features, terms of service, and privacy policy. Employees and field leaders must also check the reputation of the tool developer and any third-party services used by the tool (e.g. check reviews, check security practices, check privacy policies, etc.).
  2. Protection of confidential data: Employees and field leaders must not upload or share any data that is confidential, proprietary, or protected by regulation without prior approval from the appropriate department. This includes data related to participants, leaders, employees, ministry operations, or partners.
  3. Access control: Employees and field leaders must not give access to AI tools outside the ministry including but not limited to sharing login credentials or other sensitive information as required to meet security compliance requirements.
  4. Use of reputable AI tools: Employees and field leaders should use only reputable AI tools and be cautious when using tools developed by individuals or companies without established reputations. Any AI tool used must meet our security and data protection standards.
  5. Compliance with security policies: Employees and field leaders must apply the same security best practices we use for all ministry, leader, and participant data. This includes using strong passwords and keeping software up to date.
  6. Data Privacy: Employees and field leaders must exercise discretion when sharing information publicly. As a first step, they must ask themselves the question, “Would I be comfortable sharing this information outside of the ministry? Would we be okay with this information being leaked publicly?” before uploading or sharing any data into AI tools. Second would be to follow b) above.

How Can AI be Used

Community Bible Study recognizes Artificial Intelligence can be leveraged as a tool to potentially enhance systems and processes that support the execution of CBS’s vision and mission. We recognize that artificial intelligence cannot replace human interaction and the Holy Spirit’s leading. We will never use AI as a substitute for the shepherding and personal relationships that are foundational to our ministry. However, we believe it is good stewardship to explore AI’s potential in fields such as translation and data analysis, where it can enable CBS to use time and resources more wisely. As with all tools, employees and field leaders should gather insights and information for teachings and other opportunities to teach from scripture from resources that are biblically sound. AI should not be used to generate CBS teachings or other ministry talks.

Examples of Possible AI Use

  • Generative AI language translation tools can be used to reduce cost and expedite translation of CBS courses and materials. These translations will still undergo subsequent human review, editing and formatting per our Translation Policy.
  • AI may be used to translate CBS videos into other languages. All videos should be proofed by someone proficient in the language to ensure faithful translation of the content.
  • CBS data with personally identifiable information (e.g. names, addresses, phone numbers, birthdates, and any other identifying information) will not be uploaded to any AI platform without the approval of the IT Director.

Review and Revision

This policy will be reviewed and updated on a regular basis to ensure that it remains current and effective. Any revisions to the policy will be communicated to all employees and field leaders.

Conclusion

Community Bible Study is committed to ensuring that the use of AI tools by employees and field leaders is safe and secure. By following the guidelines outlined in this policy, CBS can steward AI tools while minimizing the potential associated risks.

Acknowledgement and Compliance

All employees and field leaders must read and follow this policy before using any AI tools within the CBS context. Failure to comply with CBS’s AI policy will result in disciplinary action for employees and shepherding intervention with field leaders.

All employees and field leaders agree to use AI tools in a manner consistent with the security best practices outlined above as well as report any security incident or concern to their appropriate department director or shepherd.