Reaching a missing generation

You’ve probably heard the term ‘missing generation’. It refers to the decreased numbers of young adults in their 20s and 30s in UK churches. But there are ways to engage with 20s and 30s effectively, to capture their imaginations and make space for them in our churches.

James Karran is a 20-something ordained minister from Cardiff. Together with a friend, he runs Solace – Church in a Bar, which attracts people in their 20s and 30s, some with a faith and some without. They tackle lifestyle issues, taking inspiration from Looking at Life to discuss topics that affect 20s and 30s in everyday life, such as money, work and relationships. They have also inspired their church to step out and join them.

“About four years ago, a friend of mine and I (both in our early 20s) were getting frustrated with the very ‘safe’ approach to mission that our church had,” says James. “Yes, the church sponsored missionaries both local and overseas, but we were yearning for something more. We saw day by day the poor and disenfranchised on the very streets we walked down. How was the church reaching them? 

“With the blessing of the church, a group of us began going out on to the streets of Cardiff city centre every Friday night to take food, drink, clothes - and most importantly, hope - to rough sleepers. Four years later, and the work is still going strong. We have built relationships that have flourished, we have been able to practically demonstrate the love of God, and we have been Christ to people who most of us would prefer to forget existed.

“This in turn has challenged the church to think differently about mission and a number of the congregation have ‘stepped out of their comfort zones’ to come out and help.”

James offers suggestions about how the church can empower this forgotten generation.

• The first and most important thing is to recognise them; this is a crucial step.
• Make space for them to be who they are.
• Listen to them and encourage them, in their biggest challenges and their everyday issues.
• This is the hardest thing of all: be open to challenge and change, for if this generation is taken seriously, both will come.
• If given the chance, 20-30somethings can make a huge impact on both the local church and local community. They bring unique perspectives, ideas and gifts. The biggest challenge for the church at large is how to provide the space needed for them to be who Christ has called them to be.

For more information about Solace – Church in a Bar, visit www.solace-cardiff.org.uk

Last Updated 06 December 2010