Christ & Artificial Intelligence

Posted on August 14, 2024 by Nate Miller
Dr. Thilo Stadelmann (right) sees AI providing a “unique opportunity to review, publicly,
what makes us truly human, and to share arguments born out of our faith.”

What comes to mind when you consider Artificial Intelligence (AI)? Do you think of intelligent war machines like “The Terminator” seeking to eliminate humanity, or an AI algorithm used for early detection of cancer, or something else?

Recent advances in artificial intelligence are prompting conversations about God in academic circles in Europe.

One Christian professor connected with Cru, Dr. Thilo Stadelmann, Professor of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, notes that ‘AI doomers’ — who believe AI will lead to the end of humanity or to a catastrophic event — raise spiritual questions when they encourage other scientists to “slow down the race to God-like AI.”

Dr. Stadelmann sees new openness among his colleagues: “AI is a game changer for testifying as a Christian. Why? Because the ‘AI doomers’ argue purely from worldview, opening up possibilities to talk about other world-views and spirituality.”

Dr. Stadelmann’s university department recently hosted Christian academic Graham Budd from Cambridge University to discuss “What kind of future do we want for humanity in a world of super-intelligent AI?”

The discussion introduced a decidedly Christian view on the topic—yet the audience of secular, materialist academics engaged enthusiastically.

Since 1088, when universities were invented, most revivals have begun with professors and students. Also, cultural trends seem to emerge on European campuses before spreading to the US. Academic concerns about AI may be a door to the gospel in Europe and the US.

Thank you for partnering with us. We are grateful to be a part of what God is doing with you.

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Cornell student & Kansas professor

Posted on July 17, 2024 by Nate Miller
Students from Cornell University gain valuable experience in their majors and impact people for Jesus.

Hudson, a Cornell student, wanted to be in two places at one time: a summer internship related to his major and a summer mission trip. When Hudson met Dr. Manny, they figured out a way to do both.

Dr. Manny, professor of Agriculture at Kansas State University, became a Christian through Cru as a student 30 years ago. He specializes in sustainable agriculture and runs a non-profit dedicated to using “modern technology to solve real-world problems in developing countries.”

Two summers ago, Hudson joined Dr. Manny in the Philippines as an agricultural intern.

Last summer Hudson recruited others to join him. He and ten Cornell Cru students joined Dr. Manny and expanded into technology and medicine. Each student gained experience in their major and helped meet the spiritual needs of the Filipinos they served.

This summer fifteen Cornell Cru students are in the Philippines. Using 30 computers donated by Cornell University, they are teaching digital literacy. They are providing medical help and community service. They are also exploring the possibility of starting Cru ministries on two local college campuses.

God introduced two Christians from different generations and parts of the country so they could work together!

Thank you for partnering with us as we serve behind the scenes. With you, we are grateful to be a part of what God is doing. We are thankful for you!

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Sticky Floors; Open Students

Posted on June 26, 2024 by Nate Miller
Greek students involved with Cru in Michigan delivered Easter baskets to fraternity houses. Each delivery gave a chance to share about Cru’s Greek ministry and to share what Christ has meant in their lives.

Stephanie’s shoes stuck to the floor as she walked into the sleepy fraternity on a Saturday morning with food for brunch. Remnants from the previous night’s escapades littering the floor. Stephanie, a Cru staff member, is partnering with a Navigators staff member to reach the Greek community on a college campus in Oregon.

That’s how Stephanie found herself in a fraternity on a Saturday morning for brunch. 

Six students attended. Stephanie listened as students shared seeing God at work. Here is some of what she heard:

Em sensed God inviting her to start a bible study in her sorority. She messaged the house group chat asking if anyone would be interested. At least 15 girls expressed interest! The small group met consistently this spring. Girls from three different sororities attend. 

Asher just began following Jesus last year. He invited a few guys in his fraternity to meet for a Bible study. Five guys attend each week and invite others to join. 

Grant attends a Navigators Bible study in his fraternity. He desires to be more committed to his faith. He boldly talks to others in his house about God. 

A few weeks ago, Stephanie again gathered students for dinner. New faces filled the room. Eight sororities and fraternities were represented!

This past May over eighty students from twenty-five fraternities and sororities in seven states gathered for Greek Summit in Colorado. They were equipped to have spiritual conversations, disciple others, and share their faith in their houses.

God is at work in Greek houses around the US!

Thank you for partnering with us as we serve behind the scenes. With you, we are grateful to be a part of what God is doing. We are thankful for you!

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