Helping Young People make sense of injustice

Grace Wesleyan Church thought they had everything together. They prided themselves on being an intergenerational church where all felt welcomed and loved. But recently, they noted a concerning trend—more and more young people were leaving their church. At first, the leadership team wasn’t too concerned. There are always people coming and going. But eventually, the trend became more noticeable.

Taking that first foray into the realm of science and faith can be difficult. But it is increasingly necessary if we are to facilitate lifelong faith in our youth.

I don’t like Lent. Maybe it’s my personality: “7” on the Enneagram. I run from pain—seeking happy, fun experiences. Advent’s more my speed: lights, presents, parties, and Jesus arriving.

For the Gen Zer in your life and those growing into “emerging adulthood,” identity not only matters—identity is complex and complicated. Our pluralistic society and fluid social life have led to a separation from once-intimate communities like family and church. This leaves many feeling alone, lost, and unsettled.