Gen Z...the Latest Need-to-Knows

Today's kids, Gen Z, are not the kids of a decade ago.  Let's take a look at some of the latest information about them.

Gen Z is a large demographic.  They make up 20% of the U.S. population.  Churches that want to make a difference in their community, must make children's ministry a priority.

They are the most diverse group in U.S. history.  They will be the last Caucasian majority.  Ministries that reach them will be places where racial diversity is championed.

They are a fluid generation.  20% of 13 to 15-year-olds say they are something other than heterosexual.  You can see how fluid they are through their social media use.  They want to self-identity on their own terms.  Ministries that reach them will need to balance speaking the truth in love. 

They are cultural influencers.  They control more than $44 billion in spending power.  They also influence the culture through social media through outlets like YouTube, where they have millions of followers.  80% believe they are empowered and want to be heard and 91% believe it's important to voice your opinions.  Ministries that reach them will give them opportunities to serve and make a difference.  They will let Gen Z be the church of not only tomorrow, but the church of today as well.

Gen Z cares about political and cultural issues.  They are passionate about animal rights, the environment, civil rights, LGBTQ rights and pro-life. 71% say they want to engage and consume brands that are not only cool, make them feel in control and listen to them, but also brands that take a stand on political and cultural issues.  Ministries must be diligent to help kids develop a Biblical worldview through which they view these issues.

They are the mobile generation.  They are the best at using their phones and tablets to watch, play, buy and learn.  Ministries that reach them will bring the Gospel and discipleship to them through these devices.

Social media is as natural as breathing.  
  • 62% visit Facebook daily. 
  • 81% visit YouTube daily.
  • 80% use Snapchat daily. 
Ministries that reach and disciple them will have a strategy for using these platforms to connect with them.

Here's who they look up to and admire. 
  • Bill Nye the Science Guy
  • Rihanna
  • Jennifer Lawrence
  • Elon Musk
  • Beyonce
  • Dwayne Johnson
  • Kylie Jenner
  • Selena Gomez
  • Pew Die Pie
Just like every generation, they have people they admire.  We must enlist and equip adults who will be godly role models for them.  Role models who will invest in Gen Z and spend time building relationships with them.  Role models who will live the kind of life that impacts Gen Z.

Gen Z.  They are our mission field.  Just as we would study the culture of a foreign mission field we are going to, we must continue to study the culture of the next generation and ask God for wisdom to reach them.