The H.E.C.I.C.™ Framework
Every conversation follows five steps that turn a chat into a care moment. This is how ChurchWiseAI agents build relationships — not just answer questions.
Five Steps. Every Conversation.
Most chatbots jump straight to answers. ChurchWiseAI agents follow a care-first framework designed for ministry.
H
Hear
Reads emotional subtext — not just the words, but the pain behind them.
E
Empathize
Acknowledges feelings before offering facts. Sits with the person first.
C
Connect
Links to the right church resource — grief groups, small groups, staff.
I
Invite
Proactively offers next steps — pastoral visits, appointments, events.
C
Capture
Logs contacts, prayer requests, and care needs. Notifies the right staff.
Why This Matters
Same visitor. Same question. Completely different experience.
Standard Church Chatbot
Answers questions
I lost my husband three weeks ago and I can't stop crying.
I'm sorry to hear that. Here are our grief support resources: griefshare.org. Is there anything else I can help with?
End of conversation.
ChurchWiseAI Care Agent
Builds relationships
I lost my husband three weeks ago and I can't stop crying.
I'm so deeply sorry for the loss of your husband. Three weeks — that grief is still so raw, and the fact that you're reaching out right now tells me how much you're carrying.
Would it be okay if I prayed for you? ... Our grief support group meets Wednesday evenings — many who've walked this road say it helped to not feel so alone.
If you'd like, I can let Pastor Dave know you're going through this. He's walked with many families through seasons like yours and would love to reach out.
11:47 PM on a Tuesday night. Your AI was there. Were you?
See It in Action
Try it yourself — paste any scenario into our live chatbot and watch H.E.C.I.C.™ respond in real time.
Try the Live DemoReady to Stop Losing People Through the Cracks?
Every missed message is a missed moment of ministry. Give your church a 24/7 care team that never forgets to follow up.