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Gone are the days of churches attracting a younger crowd and being spiritual centers of society.  The church has always been and will always be fundamental for Christians, but many young adults feel left out and express that on ministry websites.  However, church attendance is continuously decreasing today, and young adults choose to spend time with friends or their hobbies on the weekends.  The following is what young adults typically want from the church.

 

Though young adults represent a variety of subgroups with different values, goals, personal histories, and religious beliefs, many have an underlying desire to find meaning in their lives through a spiritual connection.  Most young adults want to know they are loved and valued by the church.  However, they are not content with only hearing about scripture.  They want something more, a faith that will make them feel loved and valued by God and the church.

 

Young adults understand that older mentors in the church have more life experiences and tend to be wiser so they value their advice.  But when churches have an “old guard” mentality, younger Christians might feel like they’re unwelcome.

 

As adults with good life experiences, mentors can help younger adults stay on the right track by providing guidance and wisdom.  Churches should also be places where everyone has a voice.  Often, ministry websites are an outlet for young adults to grow in their faith, find mentors, and feel more valued for who they are.

 

People usually commit to churches in hopes of finding a community.  The church can provide social support and a place for members to help each other through tough times.  The key to creating a community that attracts young adults is to give them the ability to be known and heard.  The church can fulfill this need by providing opportunities for them to interact in an online environment where they can share their experiences while offering constructive feedback.

 

Young adults also want complex issues addressed conversationally without preaching too much about what is wrong and how it needs to be fixed.  Above all else, young adults want something from church on their terms as they crave substance that speaks directly to their lives and values.  If you are a young adult who feels disconnected from the church, these should give you hope.