“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.”—Matthew 5:14-15 

Generation Z, affectionately known as gen Z, refers to individuals born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s. They are the first generation to have grown up with the internet and digital technologies as integral parts of their lives. They are often referred to as “digital natives,” having never known a world without the internet, smartphones and social media. This has shaped their communication styles, with a strong preference for video calls, instant messaging and social networks.

Gen Z is characterized by their strong awareness of social and environmental issues. They are more racially and ethnically diverse than previous generations and known for inclusive and accepting attitudes toward different backgrounds and identities. They value authenticity and individuality, challenge traditional norms and embrace a wide range of perspectives.

They demonstrate a strong concern for climate change, social justice and other global challenges, and are more likely to be involved in activism, advocacy and efforts to create positive change. Engaging in open dialogue, listening to their perspectives and demonstrating genuine care are crucial for connecting with this generation. Gen Z is principled. When asked how a Christian could appeal to them, their first choice is to see how the person behaves. When it comes to faith and the church, outreach must embody the life of Jesus—it can’t be all talk. They are trying to make a difference in the world.

There is hope because gen Z is strongly missionally driven. Raised in a post-Christian culture, gen Z is more equipped to reach the next generation. They see principled action in loving the poor as key to faith, with a strong desire for the church to be focused in ways that wouldn’t have drawn earlier generations. Recent research from Barna Group reveals that 82 percent of gen-Z Christians believe it is important for them to share their faith. They have a zeal for the Lord. They want to be engaged in church life. They are yearning for something real and eternal. This longing for truth and stability is driving a revival. Young adults are opening their Bibles again, attending church and seeking God in ways that defy the expectations of mainstream culture.

In our movement, we are blessed by the wisdom and influence these young adults bring as they attend our corps, lead and minister in our camps, and volunteer and work in our community and social mission settings. They bring affirmation and challenging questions as they find their voice and their place. We must let them speak and lead.

Recently, we received an incredible gift as 30 gen Zs visited us at territorial headquarters to share the chief concerns on their minds and hearts. These young adults, who attend our corps and other places of worship, were willing to share their views, perspectives, hopes, dreams and aspirations for their own lives and for this movement. They were encouraged to speak freely and openly, honestly and transparently, from the heart. They were assured that whatever was on their mind, whatever was shared, whatever was raised, whatever was stated could not possibly be offensive to us. What a gift to listen, to learn and to be blessed by these articulate, thoughtful, inspiring young adults, whose voice of reason illuminated and challenged us.

Their voices gave rise to significant matters of practical ministry, theology, the work of the Holy Spirit among us, holiness, relationships, faith in action, community engagement, discipleship, salvation and so much more. Their spirit of joy and determined engagement came with a sense of excitement and anticipation.

Clearly, these young people are representative voices of others who journey with us across the territory in the fulfilment of our kingdom mission as a movement. Our strong encouragement is that these vibrant young adults be allowed to speak, be heard and be given opportunities to lead. In this quiet revival the Holy Spirit is stirring, let us all give gen Zs their place. They will give light to everyone in the house.

COMMISSIONER LEE GRAVES is the territorial commander of the Canada and Bermuda Territory.

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