A new look at today’s teenagers

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.

Congregations have masked up and started to gather in person, small groups have resumed, youth group outings have started to take place. Families have returned to worship in the same space again. You may also be feeling a combination of glee and panic. These are indeed unprecedented times. Good thing we follow a God who specializes in walking with us—from the chaos of creation to the chaos of 2020 and today.