Developing a Church Strategy to Reach Gen Z
Does your church have a desire to reach the next generation but you’re not sure where to start? You are not alone. It is fairly common for churches to be overwhelmed at the thought of reaching students. In Vermont, we have been implementing strategies to reach unreached campuses through the local church. Those strategies all have the same starting point, prayer followed by a consideration of your church body’s strengths. The following steps serve as a guide to help you prayerfully consider what it looks like to reach the next generation in your community.
Step 1: Prayer
Pray earnestly for the next generation. That God would move in their midst. That He would unify every generation for His Kingdom. Pray for opportunities to love students well and to use your giftings to reach them. As we pray, God shifts the posture of our hearts and changes the lens with which we see those around us. God has a desire for your church to reach the next generation (see Deuteronomy 6:4-9). Ask Him to guide you in the steps He has already prepared.
Step 2: Plan
No matter your church demographics, ask yourselves; “What are the giftings, passions, and strengths of our church?” God can use anything for His glory. A small church in Vermont has the gift of hospitality, they support college ministry by providing weekly baked goods and treats for the Bible Study being held on campus! No gift or interest is too small for God to use (see 1 Peter 4:10). Once you discern your church's strengths/assets, prayerfully consider how you can use those to serve and connect to students in your area.
Step 3: Proximity
Meeting students where they are is crucial. We see all throughout the Gospels how Jesus traveled from place to place, meeting people where they were. He even met Zacchaeus while he was in a tree (see Luke 19)! Prayerfully consider places students frequent in your area. It doesn’t have to be on campus, it can be a coffee shop or book store. Then, spend time in those places with intentionality, developing relationships. If you desire to hold an outreach or provide a small group, meet students where they are.
The key to any ministry is having the courage to start. Take the first step, trust in God’s timing and ways. Be consistent in the way you show Christ’s love and the hope of Jesus with students. It may take time, but they will come to a place where they desire to know more. Meet their physical needs, show them you care, and faith conversations are sure to follow!
Lauren Cartwright has served in collegiate ministry since 2013 and currently serves as the BCNE Collegiate Missions and Mobilization Coordinator in Vermont. You can follow her on instagram @cartwright_lauren.
