UBCNews - Business - Why Gen Z Is Reviving Christian Faith: YA Literature Trends Reveal All

Episode Date: December 11, 2025

Welcome back everyone! Today we're looking into something that's really caught my attention – Gen Z and this surprising resurgence in Christian faith. And you know what's fascinating? Young adult literature is actually reflecting this shift in really interesting ways. I'm excited to examine this with you today. Wordsmith World City: Big Spring Address: Texas Website: https://bettyjohansen.com/

Welcome back, everyone. Today we're looking into something that's really caught my attention, Gen Z, and this surprising resurgence in Christian faith. And you know what's fascinating? Young adult literature is actually reflecting this shift in really interesting ways. I'm excited to examine this with you today. Thanks for having me. Yeah, this is such a compelling topic. For years, we heard about younger generations leaving the church, but the data is telling a completely different story now. Gen Z and millennials are actually driving a resurgence in church attendance. In fact, the typical Gen Z churchgoer now attends about 1.9 weekends per month,

and millennials average 1.8 times. Compared to 20-20, when the average was close to one weekend per month, these rates have nearly doubled. That's remarkable. So we're seeing an actual reversal of the trend. What do you think is fueling this? Well, the approach Gen Z takes to spirituality is different. They're showing genuine spiritual curiosity and a deep desire for belonging.

But here's the thing. They're not just accepting traditional frameworks. Gen Z is reinventing what it means to be spiritual, believe, and belong. They're combining tradition, individuality, and modernity in ways we haven't seen before. Mm-hmm. I see. So they're blending these elements together. How does that show up in their actual values and practices?

Gen Z integrates values like environmentalism and social justice directly into their spiritual practices. They're looking for faith systems that support their values and provide opportunities for personal development rather than rigid rules to adhere to. Mindfulness and meditation are hugely popular spiritual practices among this generation. They're less focused on ideology and more about experience. Questions and curiosity drive them. That makes sense. I've heard the phrase spiritual but not religious, thrown around a lot.

Is that what we're seeing here? Exactly. Many in Gen Z identify as spiritual but not religious. They seek personal growth and enlightenment outside organized religion. Research shows that Gen Z tends to believe there's something out there more powerful than them, but many remain hesitant to embrace religion or churchgoing. But here's what's encouraging. Even if Christianity and organized religion aren't always attractive to,

them at the moment, Gen Z is willing to talk about deep in spiritual topics. That openness is key, and I mean, that willingness to engage is really what opens doors for meaningful conversations. So there's this spiritual hunger, this willingness to engage. Have you ever wondered what your own kids or students are reading that might reflect these values? Now, how is young adult literature mirroring this moment? Eye literature is absolutely reflecting these trends. About 48% of adults and 51% of teenagers reported reading at least one Christian book in the past year other than the Bible. What's really telling is that these books address the real pressures Gen Z face,

grief, friendship, faith, immigrant family experiences, and educational pressures. They're thoughtful and authentic, which resonates with this generation's desire for genuine storytelling. That point about genuine storytelling sets up our next piece, how publishers can meet these readers authentically, but first, a quick word from our sponsor. If you're interested in experiencing faith through engaging stories, check out Wordsmith World. This platform offers clean, wholesome, cozy mystery novels

that blend Christian insight with compelling storytelling, all penned by author Betty Johansson. She is a former science teacher-turned author whose books provide mystery and faith without explicit content or gore, perfect for readers who value authentic, thoughtful narratives. Visit the link in the description to explore the collection. Picking up on genuine storytelling, how should the entertainment industry, including

YAA literature, adapt to meet Gen Z where they are? Great question. The industry needs to reflect Gen Z's blended approach to faith and values. These readers want stories that promote authentic and inclusive perspectives. Gen Z values authenticity, inclusivity, and social justice in their spiritual pursuits. So publishers and writers should create content that honors those values while still examining meaningful spiritual themes. Meeting them in their complexity matters. Right. So not oversimplifying their experience. What does that look like practically in storytelling?

It means characters who wrestle with real questions, who integrate their environmental concerns with their faith walk, who see spirituality as something fluid rather than static. Gen Z enjoys the freedom of investigating a number of beliefs and practices to see what feels right for them. Traditional practices like prayer remain favorites, but they're just as likely to consider being in nature, doing art, practicing yoga, or volunteering as ways to connect spiritually. You could say they're spiritual multitaskers, though hopefully without checking their phones during meditation. That's such a holistic view of spirituality. I imagine this creates both opportunities and challenges for church leaders and, uh, educators trying to engage with Gen Z.

Definitely. Here's the reality. Even with increasing participation, younger adults attend church less than half the time. Every touch point matters. Church leaders need to reimagine discipleship pathways and relational connections in ways that resonate. Digital tools can help bridge that gap. church apps for small groups, online resources for spiritual growth. Meeting them where they are both physically and digitally is what works.

Right, exactly. So to everyone listening, whether you're a parent, a youth pastor, or an educator, how can you better understand this generation's spiritual interests? First, recognize that Gen Z is curious, compassionate, and creative in how they experience the divine. Don't dismiss their approach because it looks different. because it looks different. In 2022, 68% of young people surveyed identified as religious

and 77% claim to be spiritual. Those numbers show genuine engagement. Second, create spaces for authentic conversation. They want to question, to examine, to integrate their whole selves into their faith walk. Mm-hmm. That's helpful. Third, understand that this shift is a response to modern emptiness. Gen Z is searching for meaning, for belies,

for belonging, for something transcendent. That's why faith communities that offer genuine relationships, opportunities for service, and space for personal development, or seeing younger adults return. Discipleship and spiritual growth drive this, not just attendance numbers. When I was teaching,

I had a student tell me she felt closest to God while volunteering at an animal shelter. That really opened my eyes to how wide their spiritual vocabulary is. That personal touch really matters. Have you noticed specific themes in YA literature that particularly resonate with this generation's spiritual search? Absolutely. Stories that tackle belonging, identity, and purpose are huge. Mental health and well-being are central to Gen Z's spiritual practices, so books that address those themes authentically really connect. Characters facing real struggles and finding genuine hope.

Not easy answers, but real messy faith walks? That's what resonates. Looking ahead, what do you see as the future of this revival? If these trends continue, the spiritual inquiries of the next generation could redefine Christianity in congregations in the coming decade. Gen Z is unafraid to question old rules and create new pathways to the sacred, blending ancient practices with modern sensibilities. The vitality of the church may hinge on how well leaders engage this curiosity and commitment. Honestly, the timing is exciting. It really is.

This conversation has opened my eyes to how Gen Z is reshaping faith in ways that honor both tradition and innovation. For everyone listening, pay attention to the young adult literature your kids or students are reading. It might just reveal the spiritual conversations they're already having. Thanks so much for joining us today. Thank you. This has been wonderful.