In today’s cultural climate, many congregations are grappling with the steady drift of young adults away from church life. Whether due to disillusionment, a lack of meaningful connection, or the perception that faith communities no longer speak to their real-world challenges, the disengagement of this age group poses a serious concern for the future of many churches. Thankfully, there are proven and practical ways to help young adults in church feel valued, heard, and spiritually nourished.
Below are ten intentional strategies to strengthen the presence and participation of young adults in church.
10 Practical Ways to Encourage Young Adults to Stay in Church
1. Create a Culture of Listening
Young adults don’t just want to be told what to believe—they want to be heard. Hosting open forums, feedback nights, or “ask me anything” sessions with church leadership provides space for honest dialogue. When they see that their questions and experiences are taken seriously, trust begins to grow.
2. Offer Roles That Matter
Many young adults in church become disengaged because they don’t feel needed. Move beyond token volunteer slots and invite them into meaningful leadership and service roles: tech teams, creative planning groups, teaching rotations, or outreach teams. Responsibility deepens commitment.
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3. Prioritize Young Adults in Church
While peer community is essential, young adults also long for mentors. Pairing them with mature believers through a mentorship program helps bridge generational gaps and cultivates spiritual depth. Churches that foster cross-generational relationships create a more vibrant and rooted community.
4. Equip, Don’t Entertain
It’s tempting to rely on flashy events or trendy aesthetics, but most young adults in church are looking for something more substantial. Equip them with spiritual practices, theological training, and tools for navigating real life. Bible literacy, prayer habits, and worldview discussions often matter more than hype.
5. Address Relevant Issues Honestly
Avoiding difficult cultural or moral conversations makes churches seem out of touch or evasive. Churches should tackle relevant issues—mental health, sexuality, justice, technology, vocation—from a biblical but compassionate perspective. When these topics are approached wisely, young adults see the church as a place of thoughtful engagement.
