In May 2025, we revisited a question that has become even more urgent in a rapidly changing world: what does it mean to share good news in a way that truly resonates with young people today?
Nearly a decade since our original research in 2016, the cultural landscape has continued to evolve, shaped by global uncertainty, digital acceleration, and a deepening hunger for meaning. The generation once known as Gen Z has grown up, and with them has come a new wave: Gen Z-A, today’s 11–18s. Their world is different, and so are their questions, hopes, and spiritual instincts.
While much has been studied about young people and faith, we wanted a wider lens. This study isn’t just about those already attending church. We set out to understand the broader spiritual atmosphere: where young people are spending time, who and what is shaping their beliefs, and how they see the Church—from the ground up.
Through Z-A: Growing Spirituality Part one, we hope to equip churches, ministries, and communicators with a clearer view of this generation’s growing spiritual curiosity—and how we can meet them meaningfully in the places they already are.
Subsequently in April, we take the conversation further with part two, bringing local churches into the mix. Churches were asked questions alongside young people, giving us a side-by-side view of perspectives on youth, faith, and the local church.
This research explores how churches are engaging with young people, what’s working in youth ministry, and what might need to change for the church to meet this moment. Our goal is to give churches, ministries, and communicators a clear picture of this conversation and how together we can help young people connect with Jesus.
