Revolutionizing Digital Evangelism: The Launch of VisitorReach’s Conversational Assistant

Every person who reaches out to a church through the VisitorReach app represents an extraordinary opportunity—someone loved by God and seeking connection, hope, and answers. But crafting the right response, especially in sensitive or complex situations, is no small task.

That’s why we’re thrilled to announce the launch of VisitorReach’s newest feature: the Conversational Assistant. This new feature assists pastors and church leaders to respond with care, ensuring every person feels truly seen and valued.

Let’s explore why this matters and how VisitorReach is shaping the future of digital evangelism with this powerful tool.

The Growing Use of AI Across Society

AI is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s a present reality reshaping industries and interactions. Consider these trends:

• By 2024, 77% of organizations globally are using AI in some capacity¹.
• AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants handle over 85% of customer interactions in retail and service industries².
• A growing number of churches are using AI tools for sermon preparation, audience engagement, and administrative tasks, with 28% of pastors reporting increased efficiency as a result³.

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The church has historically lagged behind in adopting new technologies. But we cannot afford to wait any longer. The stakes are too high, and the opportunities are too significant. We are called to be leaders, not followers, in leveraging every tool available to reach people with the gospel.

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The Reluctance Around AI in Ministry

Despite the growing prevalence of AI in society, many pastors and church leaders remain hesitant to embrace it.

• 47% of pastors say they are cautious about using AI in ministry contexts⁴. 
• 36% of church leaders worry that AI may undermine the relational aspects of ministry⁵.

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Concerns range from theological implications to fears about depersonalization. 

While there are legitimate reasons for caution, the reality is that AI—when used not as a replacement for personal ministry, but as an enhancement to ministry,  AI tools can increase  a church’s ability to connect with people quickly and efficiently.

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How the VisitorReach AI Button Works

The new AI Button in the VisitorReach app is designed to help churches overcome two key challenges: being short on time and finding the right words.

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1. A Starting Point

Our AI feature uses advanced natural language processing to craft responses tailored to each individual’s inquiry. Whether someone is asking a hard theological question, seeking prayer, or expressing doubts, the AI provides a starting point for meaningful dialogue.

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2. Full Control for Leaders

You remain in control at every step. If the AI-generated response doesn’t align perfectly with your vision or tone, you can regenerate an alternate response or modify it using your own words. This ensures that the response always feels personal and authentic.

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3. Intelligent Assistance for Complex Questions

Many people today ask hard questions about faith, morality, and life’s challenges. These questions deserve theologically sound and compassionate answers. The AI Button does the heavy lifting, offering leaders a foundation to build upon without sacrificing depth or care.

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4. Respond Quickly and Respond Well
Timeliness matters—research shows that responding within an hour can dramatically increase the likelihood of meaningful conversations⁶, ultimately fostering thoughtful communication that builds trust and opens hearts.

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Leading the Way in Digital Evangelism

At VisitorReach, our philosophy is rooted in finding “the one.” Each person who contacts a church is more than a statistic; they are a soul with unique needs, questions, and hopes.

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VisitorReach is committed to equipping churches with the tools they need to thrive in a digital age. From leveraging AI to optimizing digital outreach strategies, we aim to empower churches to connect with people like never before.

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Footnotes:

1. PWC Global AI Adoption Projections. (2024). Link‍

2: Gartner. (n.d.). AI Utilization in Retail and Service Industries. Link‍

3. FaithTech Survey. (2023). AI Use in Churches: Efficiency and Engagement.‍

4. Barna Research. (2023). Pastors’ Perspectives on AI in Ministry. Link

5. Lifeway Research. (2024). Church Leaders’ Views on AI and Relational Ministry.

6. Harvard Business Review Research. The Short Life of Online Sales Leads. Link

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