What Gen Z Wants in a Church in 2024

2024 is shaping up to be a monumental year for several reasons. We're gearing up for the presidential elections in the United States, anticipating a general election in the UK, and setting our sights on the 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris, France. As a huge Olympics fan, I'm especially excited!

But there's more to 2024. A recent report suggests that the number of Gen Zers working full-time will surpass Boomers by early 2024. While Millennials remain the dominant force in the workforce, Gen Z is stepping up, ready to make their mark on culture, the economy, and beyond.

So, what does this mean for your church? As Gen Z emerges as a significant societal force, it's vital for churches to understand and connect with this generation. With that in mind, here are a few insights to guide your efforts in serving Gen Z and pointing them toward Jesus!

Gen Z Wants Authenticity 

Have you ever met someone who's super friendly or complimentary, only to realize they're just trying to sell you something? Gen Z can spot these facades a mile away. In a world where social media often blurs reality, Gen Z craves authenticity. They value truth, embrace vulnerability, and aren't afraid of life and faith in their raw, unedited forms.

How the Church Can Respond:

Relevance isn’t about being cool; it is about being close. In fact, if you look up the definition of the word “relevant,” you will see that it is defined as “Closely connected or appropriate to what is being done or considered.” The closer we get as leaders to this emerging generation, the more relevant we will be in their eyes. The less we hide our faults and flaws and messiness – and the more we share our real-life testimonies of God’s goodness – the more we will be trusted. If you want to be relevant in the eyes of Gen Z, embrace authenticity! 

Gen Z is Drawn to Nostalgia 

Like me, a Millennial who loves 90s worship jams and WWJD bracelets, Gen Z also has a soft spot for nostalgia, especially from the early 2000s. Think tinted sunglasses, Ugg boots, and, yes, even cassette tapes.

How the Church Can Respond:

Recognizing Gen Z's love for nostalgia can help your church connect with this generation in a meaningful way. When planning merchandise for your next conference, consider embracing styles from the early 2000’s and retro aesthetics. Think beyond traditional setups like photo booths with balloon arches; instead, opt for quirky selfie stations that resonate with a sense of playful nostalgia. Incorporate elements like playdough and Legos in youth group activities – it might sound unconventional, but it's worth a try!

Understanding the deeper reasons behind Gen Z’s love for nostalgia will also help you pastor this generation with greater empathy and understanding. Spend time considering why Gen Z is drawn to the past. Is it longing for simpler times in the midst of a complex digital age? Is it a search for identity in a world where traditional markers of adulthood and achievement have shifted dramatically? How does Jesus meet these needs? Your church should be able to clearly communicate the answer!

Gen Z is Drawn to Cultures of Empowerment 

According to Finances Online, the main reasons Gen Zers stay at a job are centered around work culture and growth potential. Gen Zers are particularly attracted to environments where they feel empowered and valued – where they can actively contribute, develop, and realize their potential. If this is true of the workplace, it is also true of Gen Z’s engagement with community and faith-based settings. 

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How the Church Can Respond:

Delegation can be difficult - especially when the stakes feel high. Even so, it is crucial that seasoned church leaders both empower and mentor members of the emerging generation. Offer real leadership opportunities, not just participation. Let Gen Zers contribute to areas where they naturally excel, and make sure you provide feedback and support along the way! This will not only benefit your church but also help Gen Zers feel a deeper sense of belonging and investment in your church community.

Gen Z is Technologically Oriented

Gen Z, the first true digital natives, are masters of the digital world. They're used to seamlessly switching between various social media platforms, and this exposure has increased their ability to multitask effectively as they process and interact with a continuous stream of digital content. This digital orientation extends to their communication style, as well, with text messages being informal, concise, and limited in punctuation.

How the Church Can Respond:

To effectively engage with Gen Z, it's crucial for your church to not only embrace technology but also to collaborate with this tech-savvy generation. This means integrating digital tools in a way that resonates with their lifestyle and communication preferences. Use short-form videos to deliver concise yet powerful messages, and if you haven’t embraced TikTok yet, consider it. Not only is this App Gen Z’s favorite social media platform, but it recently surpassed YouTube in Gen Z popularity. 

Gen Z is Cause-Driven

Generation Z is not one to sit on the sidelines. Having spent their most formative years in the midst of a global pandemic and major cultural shifts, many Gen Zers have developed a strong passion for addressing the pressing issues of our times. Their worldview, shaped amidst these global challenges, has spurred a deep commitment to various causes. 

How the Church Can Respond:

Given their zeal for causes, Gen Z is likely to be drawn to mission-oriented churches that actively engage their communities and embody the gospel in both actions and words. Churches can tap into this by recruiting Gen Z congregants to spearhead initiatives such as food drives, social justice, and anti-trafficking work. This approach encourages active participation and demonstrates a commitment to tangible change, resonating with Gen Z's desire for authenticity and direct impact.

Mentorship Matters

As we navigate the rush of the new year, it's important to remember not to overcrowd our schedules at the expense of intentional mentorship with Generation Z members of our congregation. My hope for 2024 is that it becomes a year where the church not only takes more notice of Gen Z but actively champions, uplifts, and integrates them into the very fabric of our faith community.  Check out this article for more insights on how to effectively raise up the next generation of disciples and leaders at your church!