The data

What the research shows.

Six independent studies converge on the same pattern: adoption is broad, capability is rare, governance is mostly absent.

A consistent trend across all sectors surveyed.

92%vs7%

92% of nonprofits use AI in some form vs 7% report major capability gains

Nonprofits · Virtuous · 2026 · n=346

60%vs5%

60% of church leaders use AI monthly vs 5% of churches have an established AI policy

Churches · Barna/Pushpay · 2026 · n=1,306

88%vs6%

88% of organizations use AI in at least one function vs 6% qualify as high performers

Enterprise · McKinsey · 2025 · n=1,993

60%vs5%

60% of firms generate no material AI value vs 5% qualify as future-built

Enterprise · BCG · 2025 · n=1,250

The Trust Deficit

While adoption accelerates quietly, constituents remain skeptical. Transparency is emerging as the primary differentiator for institutions.

43% of churchgoers disagree with their pastor using AI for sermon prep

43%

Lifeway · 2026 · n=1,200 churchgoers

62% of pastors are concerned about non-disclosure of AI involvement

62%

Lifeway · 2026 · n=1,003 pastors