GEN Z and church? Maybe not two things you would immediately put together, but a new report from the Bible Society entitled “The Quiet Revival” suggests these two worlds might not actually be so far apart.

In 2018, four per cent of those aged 18 to 24 attended church at least once a month, but by 2024 this had increased to 16 per cent, representing a significant rise and making them the second-largest demographic in the church. Twenty-eight per cent said they believed in God/higher power in 2018 whereas 45 per cent said they did in 2024.

Why this increase? Something we have observed in working with children and teenagers, and as a young adult myself, is the importance of belonging. In an increasingly digital age where mental health concerns are on the rise (58 per cent of 18 to 24 year olds say they “frequently feel anxious or depressed”), the church can be a place of connection, but not only that – a place of hope.

The focus we have in seeking to engage with younger generations, through our youth cafe, toddler group, Alpha, Sunday morning gatherings and more, is to provide a space for connection, where people can share openly and honestly.

What is more, we love to share our hope amid hardships. For Christians, this is not just optimism, but rooted in a relationship with Jesus. One verse in the Bible that is really important for a lot of our young people is Jeremiah 29:11 which talks about God having a good and hopeful plan.

God’s heart is for connection with each one of us. As the research indicates, young people are becoming increasingly disillusioned. They are searching for answers and a sense of meaning. They are discovering that the church, even more Jesus, has something to offer.

Rosie Blyth, youth leader,

St Austell Parish