Church Tech Boosts Connection and Engagement

Pushpay has released its 2025 State of Church Technology report, revealing that digital tools are strengthening faith communities, deepening connections, and transforming how ministry is conducted. The study, which surveyed over 1,700 church leaders across the U.S., shows overwhelming support for technology’s positive impact—86% believe it enhances connection, and churches are four times more likely to report reduced loneliness through tech.

Live streaming continues to be a key engagement tool, with 87% of churches still offering the service and increasing investment in high-end streaming platforms. Mobile app usage and church management software (ChMS) adoption also saw growth, and 70% of leaders say digital tools have increased generosity within their congregations.

Artificial intelligence has seen a major shift toward mainstream adoption, with 45% of church leaders now using AI—a jump of 80% from last year. Most use it for tasks like email generation, social media content, and imagery. However, fewer than 25% of leaders are using AI to create theological content, reflecting caution around spiritual applications. Still, 45% see AI as strategically important over the next two to three years.

The report also reveals optimism for future innovations, including cryptocurrency: while only 10% of churches currently use it, 39% believe it will be strategically important soon. Communication remains the top challenge churches hope tech can improve, while financial concerns about adopting tech have declined for the first time since the report’s inception.

Younger generations are helping drive church engagement, with Millennials and Gen Z responding strongly to churches that integrate digital strategies. Millennials are twice as likely to join tech-forward churches, and 46% of churches reported increased engagement from this group.

Pushpay’s findings suggest churches that invest in the right digital tools are more likely to foster growth, connection, and relevance—especially among younger audiences. To access the full report or register for the May 21 webinar, visit www.pushpay.com.