Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria launches AI-supported volunteer platform

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria (ELKB) is launching a centralized platform called ‘Servicepoint Ehrenamt’ to consolidate resources for volunteers. The initiative aims to provide easier access to training, materials, advisory services, and networking opportunities that were previously scattered across various departments.

A key feature of the new service is the integration of artificial intelligence through a chatbot named ‘espe’, designed to provide 24/7 answers to practical questions regarding volunteer work. According to Barbara Gruß from the ‘Wirkstatt evangelisch’ volunteer team, the platform is intended as an investment in volunteer engagement rather than a cost-cutting measure. While the digital tools aim to provide orientation and quick information, the church emphasized that personal counseling will remain available.