A fourfold rise in church attendance among young adults – and a doubling in rates of depression among teenage girls. These striking statistics come from two recent studies on Generation Z: The Quiet Revival from the Bible Society, and The Anxious Generation by social psychologist Jonathan Haidt. However, I’d caution against reading too much into the numbers – after all, the Quiet Revival defines ‘regular’ church attendance as once a month; I believe it should mean more.
As someone working with UCCF in London, I have the privilege of walking alongside Gen Z students as they explore faith and step into leadership through Christian Unions. These are student-led groups, which means they thrive only when young people themselves are willing to lead – a challenge in today’s climate. One in three university students will experience a serious mental health episode. Many live under the constant strain of ‘24/7 reputation management’ – the demand to curate a perfect identity for a ‘chronically online’ audience.
And yet, amid the anxiety, there is a surprising openness to spiritual things. In my experience on the ground, I can say with confidence: yes, there is more anxiety among students; and yes, there is more interest in faith. Both things are true – and they seem to be rising together.
But beyond the statistics, what encourages me most is seeing Christian students, despite their weaknesses, ready to give a reason for the hope they have. They’re meeting friends where they are, and gently, boldly showing them Christ.
As we often remind ourselves through Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians: ‘But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us’ (2 Cor 4:7).
Gen Z students who grasp this truth are discovering something beautiful: their friends aren’t put off by their fragility – in fact, they find it relatable and compelling. Where previous generations may have sought confidence and polish, today’s students are often drawn to authenticity and hope in the face of weakness.
I have great hope for gospel work among students in London – not because of statistics, but because I meet young men and women who still love Jesus, still love his word and still proclaim him, even when it’s hard. There is gospel work to be done, whether or not this moment turns out to be a ‘quiet revival’.
As the church, we have a vital role in the formation of Gen Z. We cannot dismiss or mock them for their quirks or vulnerabilities – they are our future leaders. They need the same grace we’ve all received. And wonderfully, the gospel – lived and experienced in community – is the perfect antidote to the struggles they face.
One student said to me recently: ‘Unlike with so many of my friends, at church I can be truly known and truly loved.’ That student is still anxious. Still nervous in crowds. Still battling through challenges. But they’ve come to know the truth that transforms everything: God’s power is made perfect in weakness.
Can you pray?
Pray more young people will be saved and commit to evangelical churches.
Pray Gen z Christian leaders will be raised.
Pray church would grow in love for Gen Z.