Young Adults And The Church A Path To Renewal

Young Adults and the Church: A Path to Renewal

I’m  Rev. Jay Stuart Glover and you are listening to Faith Talk. 

I’m excited today, as we reflect on a topic that’s vital for the future of our faith communities—young adults returning to the church and the incredible impact they can have. We’ve all heard the statistics: church attendance among young adults, particularly those aged 18-35, has been on the decline for some time. Yet, there’s a powerful and vibrant hope on the horizon. Young adults, when given the right environment, are not only ready to return—they have the potential to reinvigorate our churches and make them thrive in new ways.

Today, I want to talk about why young adults around the world should return to church and what they bring that can benefit the church in profound ways. Their involvement isn’t just a response to their personal needs; it’s also an opportunity for the church to be strengthened and revitalized. Let’s explore this together.

1-The Need for Community and a Sense of Belonging

In today's world, where digital connections often replace face-to-face interactions, many young adults find themselves struggling with feelings of isolation. Ironically, despite being constantly connected online, they often experience a sense of loneliness and disconnection. Social media may link us, but it doesn’t always provide the deep, authentic relationships necessary for emotional and spiritual well-being.

This is where the church plays a crucial role. A supportive faith community offers young adults a place to find true human connection, emotional support, and guidance. It counters the isolation they feel, offering them a space where they are seen, heard, and genuinely cared for. The power of community in the church cannot be underestimated—it is a lifeline for many, especially those navigating the pressures and complexities of modern life.

There are young adults that long for a community where they can form deep, meaningful relationships—where they can engage with others, share life’s experiences, and support each other through challenges. Churches that intentionally create spaces for connection, whether through small groups, social events, or mentorship opportunities, meet this need. For young adults, this sense of community isn’t just a bonus—it’s essential.

2. The Search for Authenticity

Young adults are also searching for authenticity in their church experience. This generation values transparency, sincerity, and real conversations. They want to know that the faith being practiced is not just a set of rules but something real, and relative to their  everyday lived experience.

When churches foster environments where people are free to express their doubts and struggles without judgment—they create a safe space for young adults to wrestle with their faith, ask tough questions, and grow spiritually. This emphasis on authenticity helps build trust and makes church a place where young people feel valued and heard.

3. The Passion for Social Justice and Outreach

Many young adults today are deeply motivated by causes like social justice, environmental stewardship, and global service. They are eager to make a tangible difference in the world. And the good news is that the church, is supposed to be a community that aligns perfectly with these values. Young adults are drawn to churches that are actively engaged in outreach—whether it’s through local service projects, global missions, or social justice initiatives.

Their passion for justice and compassion can help the church become a place of real impact in their communities as well as globally.  They want to see their faith lived out in tangible ways, making a difference in the world around them. Churches that prioritize outreach and service give young adults a space to live out their beliefs, contributing to something bigger than themselves.

4-What Young Adults Bring to the Church

Now, let’s talk about what young adults bring to the church. It’s not just about what they need; it’s also about the incredible gifts and perspectives they offer.

Fresh Perspectives and Creativity

Young adults bring fresh ideas and creative solutions. They are often the ones who think outside the box, bringing new ways of approaching worship, ministry, and outreach. Their creativity can breathe new life into the church’s activities, helping it stay relevant in an ever-changing world. Whether it’s through new forms of worship, digital engagement, or innovative community-building strategies, young adults have the ability to infuse the church with new energy.

Technological Savvy

Another gift young adults offer is their technological expertise. Having grown up in a digital world, they are highly skilled in social media, streaming services, and online platforms. This technical savvy can help the church enhance its digital presence, connect with a wider audience, and stay relevant in the digital age. Whether it’s through online Bible studies, virtual worship services, or social media outreach, young adults can help the church reach beyond its walls.

These are only a couple of gifts young adults bring to the church. The important thing is that they will be.

5- A New Generation of Leaders

Finally, young adults are the future leaders of the church. Whether they’re leading small groups, volunteering in ministry, or taking on leadership roles, they bring energy, enthusiasm, and a sense of purpose that can inspire the entire church. When given the opportunity to lead, they bring new ideas, new strategies, and new enthusiasm for the mission of the church.

         So, why should young adults return to church? The answer is clear: the church offers them community, authenticity, spiritual growth, and an opportunity to make a difference. But beyond that, young adults have so much to offer the church : creativity, energy, and technical expertise. They also have passion for justice, and a commitment to service. By recognizing and embracing these gifts, the church can be revitalized, strengthened, and equipped for the future.

The church is not just a place for the faithful; it’s a hospital for the hurting, a home for the seeking, and a place where lives can be transformed. Let’s create spaces where young adults feel seen, heard, and valued—where they can grow in their faith, lead with purpose, and help the church fulfill its mission in the world.

 I hope this conversation has been encouraging for you. The church needs our young adults to carry our traditions into the future. Let’s continue to work together to build faith communities that not only welcome the next generation but are also strengthened by it. 

I’m Rev Jay Stuart Glover and you are listening to “Faith Talk.” These episodes are available on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, YouTube and other podcast platforms. Please share with family and friends. Visit www.revjaystuartglover.com  where you can subscribe leave a review, comments and reach me directly be email. I’d like to begin a global chat with our listeners around the world. Leave you comments and we can get started on that. 

God bless you abundantly and I’ll see you next time. Amen