Young People aren’t leaving the Church they are leaving your church.

Lately, there's been quite a buzz in religious circles about young people seemingly giving the cold shoulder to their local churches.

Sure, the stats might paint a picture of dwindling youth involvement, but here's the scoop: they're not ditching "the" Church; they're just packing up and leaving your church.

Now, before you go running off all offended, it might be worth asking yourself the question - why?

It's a bit of a puzzle, but with a little study and some engagement, any church can begin to invite young people back into the pews of their people.

The Reality

Let's get real for a moment – young people today aren't all that jazzed about the same-old, same-old church roles.

They're itching for something fresh. So, here's an idea: let's hand them the mic (literally and figuratively). Instead of pigeonholing them into youth leaders, baristas, and glorified trash picker-up-ers, why not toss them the keys to the decision-making machine?

These young minds are brimming with creativity, new perspectives, and wild ideas. Get them involved in shaping the church's destiny, and you'll see sparks fly.

Here’s a good question to consider, how young is the youngest person in leadership at your church? If you answered above 40, you’re already missing the mark. Whether they're cooking up community outreach events, spearheading worship sessions, or directing social media, offering leadership opportunities will make them feel heard and at home.

It also is a Biblical directive of training the younger generation for the work of ministry that they are called to.

But, there is a caveat, and I know you’ve been waiting for it.

Moms and Dads

Think about the young people you currently know, what is their family life like?

If I had to venture a guess I would say, not great.

Many scholars have called 35 and under the parentless generation.

And for sure you have young people in your church that have never seen Moms and Dads modeled to them. That's where we can swoop in and be their go-to surrogate moms and dads.

Mentorship, true mentorship that invites young people into the everyday lives of the older population. Young people crave role models and wise advisors to navigate life's wild ride. These mentorship bonds can offer wisdom, a dose of encouragement, and a big dollop of that oh-so-important sense of belonging.

Your Encouragement

Your young flock isn't walking away from their faith; they're hunting for a spot where they can jump into the action and find their peeps in this fast-paced world.

Let's set them loose as leaders and create a cozy environment that fills the gaps left by shifting family dynamics. When we do that, they won't be bailing on "the" Church – they'll be planting roots in our own congregation, strengthening the faith community for generations to come.