Where Are They?

I just picked up this book today and began reading it with much anticipation.  It asks the questions, “Why do so many young adults leave the church and what will it take to bring them back?”  Those two questions are the heartbeat of my ministry and ignite my passion as pastor to college students and young adults.

The book went on to say that, “more than 2/3 of churchgoing young adults drop out of church between the ages of 18 and 22.”  Interestingly enough, the research showed that the top ten reasons why these people left the church:

1. Simply wanted a break from church.
2. Church members seemed judgmental or hypocritical.
3. Moved to college and stopped attending church.
4. Work responsibilities prevented me from attending.
5. Moved too far away from church to continue to attend.
6. Became too busy, though still wanted to attend.
7. Didn’t feel connected to the people in my church.
8. Disagreed with the church’s on political or social issues.
9. Chose to spend more time with friends outside the church.
10. Was only going to church to please others.

Simply put, most 18-22 year olds, just did not see that church was essential to their lives.  Can the church do anything to reverse this 70% drop out trent?

It is my prayer that God would break the hearts of this generation and draw them back to Himself.  May He use you and me to see His church family grow together and not lose this generation.