Millennials (born between the early 1980s and early 2000s) are a large and diverse group with their own needs and preferences. For pastors, it can be challenging to connect with this generation and provide them with meaningful religious experiences. However, with a little effort and consideration, pastors can take steps to better connect with millennials and draw them into the faith community.
1. We accept black, white and gray
The millennial generation we’re reaching for appreciates our strong religious beliefs. They are not anti-doctrine or against religious confessions and slogans. They appreciate the connection to our church past and the security these outspoken beliefs bring. But they also want to know that there are some gray areas.
They avoid absolute certainty on any subject because they instinctively know that our corruption and narrow-mindedness prevent us from knowing everything. They are not looking for gray areas to circumvent the truth, but to understand that some things remain a mystery, or at least unknown. This means there is room for growth and areas to explore.
2. We focus on community rather than programs
Apps are not a bad thing. They can be good and often necessary. But what this younger generation wants more than anything is a real sense of community. Beyond a class to attend, they want deep relationships that have the ability to relax and confront, share sorrows and joys. It is in such a community that the missionary work of discipleship can flourish.
3. We emphasize the empirical aspect of theology
The purpose of theology is not only to inform. The purpose of theology is worship and the fruit of theology is transformation. And theology, if done well, always shows the connection between truth and experience. This younger generation wants experience and likes to go deeper.
This generation is not looking for steps to take in any area of life. They want to know God in the middle of their lives who calls them to action.
4. We listen and try to understand
I was talking to a young lady while playing cards and she admitted that one of the main reasons she stayed away from the church was because of our public and strict stances on social issues. I explained that giving up our beliefs would be hypocritical and “unreal.” We believe that the Bible is the word of God and we submit to it. But I admitted that we also fail when our beliefs are held and proclaimed without compassion. We need to do better at recognizing issues as well as recognizing people and how to talk to people who are different from us.
Part of this is seen in the importance of listening to others in order to understand them. This allows them to engage and allows us to speak more clearly and accurately about a subject or a person’s life. Therefore, we strive to speak clearly with love and work hard to understand the people we serve inside and outside the church.
Today in the article : How Old Was Methuselah When He Died? Meaning and Significance? We reviewed useful information about the Bible and the way of Jesus. If you wish, you can view other articles of Ali Vahidi about Christianity
