The Church is failing to reach or keep young adults. Only 11% of regular churchgoers are between the ages of 25 and 34, whilst 16% of the UK population is within that age group. In tracking church decline, the greatest losses per year are occurring amongst those aged 15 to 29. However, there are churches bucking this trend.
This 36-page report outlines the findings from a qualitative research project undertaken by Church Army and Fresh Expressions looking into some of these churches, including parish churches, traditional church plants and fresh expressions of church, all with growing numbers of people in their 20s and 30s.
A selection of young adult leaders share their reactions to the research.
For the majority of young adults in this country, any form of church is simply off the radar. This research brings together stories that are full of hope and describes a necessary move of the spirit to be nurtured and encouraged. authentic faith is a powerful gift to young adult communities who often feel isolated and unsupported in their calling and its recommendations are astute and should be heeded. This is essential reading for the whole church.
Zoe Hart, practitioner and Fresh Expressions Associate Missioner
We should be grateful to Beth Keith for this careful piece of research and even more grateful for the seven recommendations it makes. The ageing UK church ignores these at its peril.
Norman Ivison, Director of Communication and Resources, Fresh Expressions
Beth's research is insightful and timely. Her findings will help shape future pioneering work in the church as we grapple with reaching the missing generations.
Rachel Jordan, Church of England National Mission & Evangelism Adviser