This Week's Ask A Pastor focuses on the recent Pew Research Study which finds that fewer young adults are affiliated with a church. However, on the whole they are no less spiritual than earlier generations. We asked our local Pastors for their insight on this topic.
Response by: Pastor Don Wismer, Connexion - Fort Wayne
For many years now studies have indicated a decline in activity
among young people in traditional church settings. For many, the
'church', as a place to go on Sunday mornings where one worships God is
just too structured and too 'religious.' Many of these young adults
are however very spiritually minded. They are more interested in
relationship with Jesus and with others, where they can interact and
participate in a very real way than they are in 'religion' with all the
rules; stand up sit down, sing now, give some bucks and go home type of
religion.
Additionally and unfortunately, the 'church' has a tarnished name
and perception, right or wrong, among many young adults. As author Dan
Kimball puts it in his book "They Like Jesus But Not The Church" many
see the Church as angry, too political, homophobic, intolerant,
judgmental, male dominated and money hungry.
Maybe our young adults are onto something here. Lets each examine
ourselves to see if we have propagated the negative stereotypes
mentioned above and if so, turn it around. Let's all find ways to learn
and lean into our young adults spiritual sensitivities; allowing them
to lead and participate in significant ways; to stretch their and our
ways of connecting with God and each other. I'm certain the God of
creativity enjoys all forms of Christan worship.
Don Wismer