In an era marked by rapid technological advancements and cultural shifts, Generation Z (individuals born from the mid-1990s to the early 2010s) finds itself at the intersection of tradition and innovation. This generation’s approach to spirituality, particularly their belief in God, reflects a complex blend of old and new influences. From the perspective of a Christian believer, exploring how Gen Z engages with faith offers insights into the evolving landscape of religious belief and practice.
Gen Z has grown up in a digital world, with information and diverse perspectives at their fingertips. This accessibility has fostered a culture of questioning and skepticism but also a profound search for authenticity and purpose.
Social media [especially TikTok] have become a pivotal platform for Gen Z, influencing their views on religion and spirituality. Many young Christians use these platforms to express their faith and connect with like-minded individuals. Christian leaders and organizations are also tapping into this digital space to reach out to Gen Z, using contemporary means such as podcasts, live streams, and social media posts to discuss biblical teachings and promote community engagement.
From the London Times:
Members of Gen Z in their teens and twenties are much less likely to identify as atheists than their middle-aged parents in Generation X or their Baby Boomer grandparents, a study has found. It provides fresh evidence to challenge the assumption that spirituality is declining with each generation, finding that middle-aged members of Gen X, aged between 45 and 60, are the most irreligious generation, with 25 percent identifying as atheists. The survey of 10,000 people was conducted by OnePoll and commissioned by Christopher Gasson to mark the publication of his book The Devil’s Gospels: Finding God in Four Great Atheist Books, which argues that “Christians can learn about God from atheist criticism of religion.”
He described the results as “gobsmacking” and said it could suggest that God is “making a comeback” in Britain. He added, however: “I imagine many church leaders will be rubbing their hands thinking this is the answer to their prayers but unfortunately for them, it isn’t.” He said they may need to “go back to the vestry for a rethink”, noting: “Whatever the survey might say about young people being more spiritual and religious than old people, it is equally clear that they are put off by established religion.”