Everyone needs the church – from single moms to businessmen to young entrepreneurs to senior citizens. However, in a world starved for community and connection, Gen Z needs the church more than they realize. Gen Z struggles with loneliness, depression, doubt, and lack of faith more than any other generation. This generation needs the church in order to find the community, purpose, truth, world change, and hope that they’re lacking.

Gen Z Needs Community

In a world of social media, instant communication, and large online followings, it seems like it would be easier than ever before to find community – but that’s not the case. Gen Z is found to be more isolated and lonely than any other generation. One survey found that members of Gen Z score at least 10 points higher on loneliness assessments than other generations, which leads to a lack of satisfaction, poor sleep quality, pessimism, anxiety, and depression. 

God created us for community, and one of the reasons He instituted the establishment of the local church was to provide us a place to fulfill that longing. Gen Z needs the church more than ever because the church provides something we’re all designed to chase. In the church, Gen Z can find community, connection, real friendships, and a safe place to be vulnerable. This generation’s lack of connection leads to increased mental health risks and depression – both of which can be helped with safe, authentic, godly community found in the church.

Gen Z Needs Purpose + Meaning

In addition to searching for community, we’re all searching for purpose and meaning in our lives. We want to understand why we exist, and at our core, we all want to believe that we were created on purpose, for a purpose. The church provides answers to these deep longings. In the local church, we get to hear the Gospel message and understand that our purpose and meaning come from our creator and our call to be in relationship with Him. Knowing our purpose helps us combat feelings of worthlessness or insignificance. 

Generation Z needs purpose and meaning more than ever. If you look at social media and cultural trends, you can see a generation trying to define their identities, present the right image, and prove that they’re worth loving and belonging. The church is one of God’s vehicles to address this deeper need – telling us who we are, who we belong to, and why we were created.

Gen Z Needs Truth

As one article puts it, Gen Z’s young access to the internet and social networks has produced “a hypercognitive generation very comfortable with collecting and cross-referencing many sources of information.” In short, Gen Z is searching for truth. This generation is no stranger to incorrect information, conflicting information, and the importance of doing your own research to figure out if statements are really true or not. With practically unlimited access to information with just a swipe or click, Gen Z wants to find truth in a world of confusion.

The church has the truth that Gen Z won’t find anywhere else in the world – the truth of the Bible. The Bible provides a source of absolute truth that shines bright in a world of conflicting information. And the church does more than just provide access to the truth – it also provides a platform to hear truth-filled teaching every week in a clear and accessible way. Generation Z needs you to speak the truth clearly and passionately to a world of chaos. This generation is searching for something stable to hold onto, and the Bible is just the rock they need.

Gen Z Wants to Change the World

Young people are always on a quest to change the world – whether it’s through social movements, humanitarian aid, or political action. Gen Z is no different than other generations at this age. They are highly motivated and full of energy to change the world and make a difference. The problem is, there are so many different causes and actions you can take – so which one will have the most impact?

There is no lack of places to volunteer and give your time – and many members of Gen Z likely have more time than other generations as they start their adult lives, many without kids and without as much responsibility as older generations. The church provides the greatest volunteer opportunities because not only are you making an immediate difference, but you’re also changing people’s lives for eternity. Gen Z wants to find ways to make a lasting difference in the world, and the church provides the best opportunity to do just that.

Gen Z Doesn’t Know Who God Is

The biggest reason that Gen Z needs the church more than ever is because this is the least religious generation yet. Religious identity has declined in our culture for more than three decades now. More than a third of Gen Z does not identify with any religion, higher than any other generation. Only 40% say they attended church weekly, a lower percentage than previous generations. Gen Z has had less exposure to the truth of the Gospel – so Gen Z needs the church more than ever to learn who Jesus is.

The good news is that the church offers much of what Gen Z is searching for – community, purpose, truth, and an opportunity to change the world. Gen Z might be the least Christian generation at this point, but they also have many characteristics that will help draw them to local churches. As church leaders, we need to strive to reach this generation and connect with their deeper needs. We can bring the hope of the Gospel into a broken, lonely, and lost generation. Gen Z needs the church more than ever before – and this mission field is ready and eager to learn who Jesus is.

A Call to Reach Gen Z

The opportunity to reach Generation Z is immense—and urgent. This generation is searching for authentic community, lasting purpose, and unshakable truth. They are eager to change the world but often don’t know where to start. As church leaders, we are called to meet them where they are, invite them into a thriving church family, and introduce them to the life-changing power of the Gospel.

But reaching Gen Z won’t happen by accident—it requires intentionality, strategy, and a heart for discipleship. Here are three practical steps to take today:

1. Create Spaces for Authentic Community

Gen Z craves deep, real relationships. Foster environments where they can connect, be known, and build trust. This might look like launching small groups designed for young adults, hosting casual hangouts after services, or incorporating more interactive elements into your ministry.

2. Equip Them with Purposeful Engagement

Gen Z wants to make a difference. Give them meaningful opportunities to serve—whether through local outreach, global missions, or church leadership roles. Beyond service opportunities, provide a clear path for leadership development to help them grow into future church leaders. A structured approach to mentorship, discipleship, and leadership training will ensure they feel equipped and empowered to lead in their faith. Ministry Pass members have access to a growing training library that can help you develop Gen Z as leaders, providing them with the resources they need to step into their calling.

3. Preach and Teach Truth with Clarity

In a world filled with competing narratives, the church must be a beacon of truth. Teach Scripture boldly, answer tough questions honestly, and provide practical ways for Gen Z to apply biblical wisdom to their everyday struggles.

Gen Z needs the church more than ever—and the church needs Gen Z. This is a generation ready to lead, impact, and build God’s Kingdom. Let’s give them a reason to stay, grow, and thrive within the body of Christ.