24% of young people feel their life is meaningless.
A recent study shows: 24% of young people feel their life is meaningless. But the tide turns dramatically: when just one engaged adult comes into their lives, that share drops to just 6%. Relationships aren’t just important; they change lives.
They’re looking for the person who strengthens their identity, gives them a place to belong and gives their life meaning.
While the media keep swirling with climate, politics and the economy, one truth often stays in the background: authentic connections are becoming more and more important. Generation Z lives in the midst of uncertainty and is looking for more than just a place. They’re looking for someone. For the person who strengthens their identity, gives them a place to belong and gives their life meaning.
Did you know that 86% of people choose their faith before age 15 (in German)? Another 10% follow by age 30; after that, it’s only 4%. And where do they make these decisions? Often at summer camp, a place that thrives on relationships.
86% of people choose their faith before age 15
What really matters: investing time in relationships with the next generation and helping teenagers set the course for their future in the most formative phase of their lives.
Their greatest desire is authenticity, the currency that wins trust. But in a world that is drowning in content and hungry for real community, many feel lonely despite being constantly connected.
That’s exactly where the local church has a crucial advantage: it creates space for authentic relationships that, thanks to Jesus, lead to real change.
We’re not a church with small groups; we’re a church of small groups.
As a youth leader, I often say: “We’re not a church with small groups; we’re a church of small groups.” This is where we start with icebreaker questions and food, share the highs and lows of the week in small groups and pray for each other. For me, the small group is often the first step into church. The contact continues: through messages, calls or spontaneous meetups. It’s about showing teenagers: you’re not a number; you’re seen and loved.
Walking alongside them matters online too: teenagers need inspiring content and support to live out their faith authentically. Studies show that they want fewer evangelistic events and more targeted training to share their faith authentically with their friends. Our social media feeds reflect our priorities. I encourage them to create inspiring content and live their faith visibly.
Genuine interest can be the start of something big.
The good news is: it doesn’t take spectacular events to make a difference. An honest conversation or genuine interest can be the start of something big.
English version: October 2026
