Thom and Jess explore why Gen Z’s view of the church differs significantly from that of past generations. They unpack the values, expectations, and skepticism of this connected-yet-cautious generation.

1. 1. They value authenticity over polished performance.
   2. They want participation, not passive observation.
   3. They’re community conscious and expect the church to be, too.
   4. Trust must be earned, not assumed.
   5. Digital presence matters, but in-person relationships remain the most effective.

Resources:

• Chaney & Associates

• The Church Advisory Podcast

• Upward Sports

• Upward Sports: Pickleball

• “The Millennials” by Thom S. Rainer and Jess W. Rainer (affiliate link)

• “The Anxious Generation Goes to Church” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

• “The Anxious Generation” by Jonathan Haidt (affiliate link)

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

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The Power of Partnership. Upward Sports is the world’s largest Christian youth sports organization, empowering local churches to use sports as a dynamic connection tool to engage their communities.

Start Preparing Now for 2026! Looking ahead to what’s next in your ministry? Create an outreach strategy that includes a warm invite for the whole family – use sports as that invite. Whether it’s basketball, soccer, flag football, cheerleading, volleyball, baseball, pickleball, or running for adults, Upward Sports is ready to support your church in reaching families right in the heart of your community. All you need is access to a gym or field and one passionate leader — Upward will support you with the rest.

A Variety of Sports for Every Church. From basketball, cheerleading, soccer, flag football, volleyball, and baseball to running for adults — and now pickleball — Upward Sports offers flexible league options to fit your church’s unique needs.

Exciting News: Did you hear? Pickleball is the newest offering – Claim your TWO free net sets, while supplies last! Launched in April, pickleball is perfect for middle and high schoolers — easy to learn, quick to set up, and highly engaging. Whether you prefer a traditional league or a flexible practice-and-play format, Upward Sports is here to guide you. Plus, to help you get started, Upward is offering two free Pickleball Net Sets when you create your league. But act fast — only 200 sets are available! Schedule your call today and build a purposeful pickleball ministry in your community. Learn more at www.Upward.org/Pickleball where you can access an equipment list, court dimensions, and more.

Be the Neighborhood Church. Want to create a welcoming space for families? Upward Sports provides a first-class, well-organized, and fun league experience. As a self-sustaining ministry, any church — big or small — can get started. Customize your outreach ministry today.

Learn more at www.Upward.org/ChurchAnswers.

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