Learnings on young adult faith
The second in a series of learning reviews that focuses on faith journeys for young adults
THIS UPDATE IS THE SECOND in our series of learning reviews that aim to equip leaders to address the key missional challenges and opportunities we have in work towards the Church of England’s Vision and Strategy. The focus is on new insights into the faith journeys for young adults and how the church might respond to these.
First, we have a new research report commissioned by the Vision and Strategy team and undertaken by Theos think tank into the faith journeys of 30 young adults, from non-church backgrounds, who have started coming to Anglican churches. Second, we have a conversation from leading practitioners in young adult ministry – further reflecting on the theological significance and practical responses given observed shifts observed in young adult spirituality. Third, we have a summary of learning from three projects that received national funding that explore how dioceses and churches can initiate ways of engaging with the spiritual openness and active exploration of faith that appears to be emerging.
Each is summarised below with links to explore further. Our previous learning review can be found here Learnings from revitalisations.
Theos research: Understanding Young Adult Journeys to Faith in the Church of England
This new research, carried out by Theos on behalf of the Church of England’s Vision and Strategy team, explores the journeys of 30 young adults aged 18–30 who began attending Anglican churches within the last five years. Rather than measuring trends, it listens to their stories and asks what the Church can learn from them.
Many participants grew up with little connection to Christianity. Some passed through periods of atheism, while others explored alternative spiritualities. Social media often sparked initial curiosity, leading to deeper exploration through books, podcasts, Scripture and conversations about faith. Yet digital content was only part of the story. Personal relationships with friends, clergy, teachers and church members frequently played a decisive role in helping people take their first steps into church.
The report highlights a common search for meaning, belonging and purpose. Participants were drawn to churches that felt authentic, confident and serious about faith, while community was often a key reason they stayed.
While the research cannot speak to the scale of any wider trend, it suggests that some young adults may be more spiritually curious than is often assumed. For churches, these stories offer encouragement and a challenge: to be present, welcoming and ready to accompany those beginning their own journey of faith.
Young adult journeys to faith: A conversation and reflection on the new realities of meeting and ministering to young adults
The Vision and Strategy team invited three experienced practitioners working with young adults to discuss the implications of the Theos Young Adult Journeys to Faith research. Hosted by Nick Shepherd, this article summarises reflections from Drawing on their experience across local churches and dioceses, Rachel Drury, Rich Miles and Phoebe Turner reflect on the changing ways young adults are discovering Christianity, the role of spirituality, community and encounter in their faith journeys, and what these emerging patterns might mean for the Church’s mission and ministry among a new generation.
Three projects that are changing the story about young adults and faith
This article highlights encouraging examples of churches that are helping people in their 20s, 30s and 40s rediscover faith, purpose and community. Through three inspiring initiatives—Multiply 20s–40s (York), The Pillar Project (Winchester) and The Alban Way (St Alban’s) —the article provides an overview of how churches are creating welcoming spaces, responding to mental health needs, nurturing authentic relationships and developing young leaders. It shows that when churches combine compassionate care, innovative outreach and intentional discipleship, young adults are often open to exploring faith and deepening their relationship with God. It shares practical insights and hopeful stories for church leaders seeking to engage the next generation and participate in the new opportunities God is creating. This piece is based on longer evaluations of each project and links are provided to those for those wanting to explore these projects in more detail.
