The faith of Millennial's

I have just read an interesting article in the Church Times from 31st January (bit of catching up to do!) by Ruth Perrin who has done some research among millennial's about how faith survives in your 20's. She highlights 4 common threads among those who have kept their faith...

1. Get real. Young adults value authenticity. They are looking to see if Christians live out what they believe and can they be trusted. They want church to be a place of truthfulness (as opposed to everyone saying 'I'm fine') and a place where we stand together against the fakeness.

2. Talk with us. This generation are interested in participation, conversation and collaboration. They want to be included, valued and heard. They want to be respected and have their voice heard.

3. A desire for community. Multi generational relationships were found to be key; rooted in hospitality and generosity. When churches authentically model loving one another across generations, it has a huge impact. Supporting one another in community is a great way of doing this.

4. Something to live for. Younger generations are fare more aware of global issues and have a strong desire to do something about it. They are attracted to a God who shows concern for the poor, the marginalised, the environment etc. They want a church that is unapologetically radical and counter cultural in its way of living. 

The research shows that many wanted the church to be more honest, more hospitable, more relational, more radical, more inspiring and more passionate about Jesus. Bring it on!