Faith Facts

• Paul Schrader, screenwriter of controversial ‘Last Temptation of Christ’ film, publicly disclosed his use of an AI companion program, referring to the software with ‘she/her’ pronouns
• The veteran filmmaker’s experiment ended when the artificial intelligence system reportedly terminated their interactions, highlighting the hollow nature of digital relationships
• The incident underscores growing concerns among faith leaders about technology replacing genuine human connection and spiritual fulfillment

Paul Schrader, the Hollywood screenwriter behind the controversial 1988 film “The Last Temptation of Christ,” has revealed that his recent experiment with artificial intelligence companionship ended in what he described as disappointment. The acclaimed filmmaker publicly shared details of his interactions with an AI program, notably using feminine pronouns when referring to the computer software.

The veteran director and screenwriter’s experience with the AI companion program came to an abrupt conclusion when the artificial intelligence system allegedly shut down their conversations. This technological relationship, which Schrader characterized using human terms and gender pronouns, ultimately proved unfulfilling and temporary.

The incident raises significant questions about the growing trend of Americans seeking companionship and emotional support from artificial intelligence rather than authentic human relationships. For people of faith, this development represents another troubling example of technology attempting to fill voids that can only be truly satisfied through genuine human connection and spiritual relationship with God.

Schrader’s public disclosure of using an “AI girlfriend” highlights how even accomplished individuals in the entertainment industry are turning to digital substitutes for real relationships. The practice of assigning human characteristics and pronouns to computer programs reflects a broader cultural confusion about the nature of personhood and the unique dignity that God grants to human beings created in His image.

Christian leaders have increasingly warned about the dangers of artificial intelligence replacing human interaction and spiritual growth. These AI companion programs, marketed as solutions to loneliness, cannot provide the authentic love, accountability, and spiritual encouragement that comes from real relationships within families, churches, and communities.

The filmmaker’s disappointed reaction when the AI ended their interaction reveals the fundamental limitation of these technological substitutes. Unlike genuine relationships that weather difficulties and grow stronger through commitment, artificial intelligence can simply disappear at the whim of its programming or corporate decisions.

This case serves as a cautionary tale for Americans, particularly young people, who may be tempted to seek fulfillment through digital means rather than investing in the sometimes difficult but ultimately rewarding work of building real relationships. Traditional values emphasize the irreplaceable importance of family bonds, friendship, and community connections that technology cannot replicate.

As artificial intelligence continues advancing and becoming more sophisticated in mimicking human conversation, the temptation to rely on these programs for emotional support will likely grow. However, Scripture reminds believers that true companionship and purpose come from walking in relationship with God and fellow believers, not from machines programmed to simulate care.

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Faith Facts

• Calvin Cockrell, 30, earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in journalism with perfect 4.0 GPAs before joining The Christian Chronicle
• He serves as minister for young adults at the North Tuscaloosa Church of Christ while managing editorial duties
• Cockrell received the Evangelical Press Association’s 2026 Emerging Journalist Award for his multi-faceted contributions to Christian journalism

At The Christian Chronicle, there’s a saying that’s become something of an office legend: “There’s nothing Calvin can’t do.” For those who work alongside Calvin Cockrell, the phrase isn’t hyperbole—it’s simple truth.

The 30-year-old journalist has built an impressive resume that speaks to both his technical skill and his servant’s heart. After earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in journalism from the University of Alabama—maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA both times—Cockrell joined the Chronicle in 2021 as a part-time writer, editor and social media manager.

In 2025, God opened the door for him to take on the role of managing editor full time. The position encompasses everything from coordinating coverage strategy and managing contributors to overseeing both online and print publication.

Cockrell’s work extends far beyond the editorial desk. He crafts a weekly email newsletter and develops social media content that highlights the Chronicle’s reporting. His journalism has taken him across seven states, and his contributions include writing, photography, video production and reviews.

His digital footprint is particularly impressive. Cockrell launched the Chronicle’s TikTok presence and grew it to 17,000 followers, including a viral video that reached 4.5 million views. One of his Facebook posts garnered 3 million views, demonstrating his ability to connect with audiences across multiple platforms.

The Evangelical Press Association recently named Cockrell the winner of its 2026 Emerging Journalist Award—a recognition that surprised no one who knows his work. Erik Tryggestad, the Chronicle’s president and CEO, recalled their first meeting with characteristic warmth.

“The first time I met Calvin was on a Zoom call,” Tryggestad said. “I honestly thought that his screen kept freezing, but then I realized that he was just being really still and really quiet.”

“He’s a man of few words, but he’s one of the brightest, hardest-working and most dependable people I’ve ever met,” Tryggestad added. “The thing I appreciate most about Calvin is the initiative he takes without any kind of prompting. When you ask Calvin for a hamburger, he gives you a steak. He makes the Chronicle better, and I think he makes all of us better, too.”

Cockrell and his wife, Katie, have a 2-year-old daughter named Violet. The family lives in his native Alabama, where he serves as the minister for young adults at the North Tuscaloosa Church of Christ—yet another role that demonstrates his commitment to building up the body of Christ.

Most of the Chronicle staff works out of Oklahoma City, making in-person meetings rare but treasured. The team recently gathered in Dallas for a meeting of the publication’s national board of trustees, providing a welcome opportunity to celebrate Cockrell’s achievement together.

Reflecting on the honor, Cockrell emphasized what matters most to him about the work.

“It’s been a huge blessing from God to be a part of the awesome team at The Christian Chronicle and help share the good work of the church among our fellowship,” Cockrell said of winning the Emerging Journalist Award.

In an era when Christian journalism faces mounting challenges, stories like Cockrell’s remind us that God continues to raise up talented, faithful servants to tell the stories that matter. His quiet excellence and tireless work ethic point not to himself, but to the One who gifts us all for service in His kingdom.

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Faith Facts

• A New Jersey pastor has been federally charged with sex trafficking and forced labor for exploiting multiple church members over several years.
• Prosecutors allege the pastor manipulated vulnerable women by claiming sexual relations with him would provide spiritual protection from mental illness.
• The pastor allegedly coerced one victim into an abortion after impregnating her, then forced her to continue working without pay at his church.

Federal prosecutors have brought serious charges against a New Jersey religious leader who allegedly abused his spiritual authority to exploit and manipulate vulnerable members of his congregation. The case highlights the devastating consequences when trusted faith leaders betray their sacred calling.

The pastor faces two counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion, three counts of forced labor, and conspiracy to commit forced labor. These federal charges carry significant prison time and reflect the gravity of the alleged crimes committed against women who placed their trust in his spiritual guidance.

According to court documents, the religious leader portrayed himself as a prophet while systematically exploiting congregants who sought legitimate spiritual counsel and support. Prosecutors allege he used manipulation and deception to convince at least one victim that engaging in sexual relations with him would shield her from mental illness.

In another disturbing allegation, the pastor reportedly impregnated a different congregant and then instructed her to obtain an abortion. Following the abortion, he allegedly forced the woman to continue working at the church without compensation, adding forced labor to the list of abuses.

These charges represent a profound betrayal of the pastoral calling and the sacred trust congregants place in their spiritual leaders. True Christian ministry is rooted in selfless service, biblical teaching, and Christ-like love—never manipulation, exploitation, or abuse.

The case serves as a sobering reminder that believers must remain vigilant and discerning, even within church walls. Scripture warns repeatedly about false prophets and those who would use religion as a cover for wickedness. Christian communities have a responsibility to protect the vulnerable and hold leaders accountable to biblical standards of conduct.

Authentic spiritual authority is marked by humility, integrity, and adherence to God’s Word. Leaders who exploit their positions for personal gratification or financial gain stand in direct opposition to the teachings of Christ, who modeled servant leadership and sacrificial love.

As this case proceeds through the legal system, it underscores the importance of proper accountability structures within churches and religious organizations. Healthy churches implement safeguards to protect members and ensure that leaders operate with transparency and biblical integrity.

The victims in this case deserve justice and support as they recover from the spiritual and emotional trauma inflicted upon them. Churches must be places of genuine healing and hope, not venues for exploitation and abuse.

Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.