Gen Z is ready to lead—are you ready to let them?

By “younger” we’re not referring to the 12-year-olds that qualify as Gen Z. We’re talking about the Gen Zers who are well into their twenties—think no older than 27—and have probably started their vocation already.

That means they’re in an ideal place to explore leadership opportunities in the church. There is only one problem: we have not made room for them. 

Larger churches are especially known for this as it’s easier for young adults to get lost in the crowd and keep their heads down.

Even singing at church—which is the origin story of many professional singers—has become a performance that calls for a level of excellence that the average young adult does not reach. 

Instead of encouraging these Gen Zers to find their voice—literally and figuratively—in church, we bring in experienced adults to speak, sing, and lead. But sometimes those spots should be filled with someone who doesn’t have a specialized talent.

Everyone starts somewhere, and we have a responsibility to help provide those opportunities. But first, let’s back up and look at why these gaps happen.

Taking the time to understand the Gen Z perspective

One of the biggest reasons there is a gap in opportunities for Gen Zers in church leadership is a lack of understanding between generations.

A prime example of this is the “just put on your big boy pants and figure it out” mentality of Boomers. That didn’t work very well for Gen X, barely at all with Millennials, and not at all with Gen Z.

For example, a Gen Z person may not be drawn to parking lot duty or manning the grill at a church barbeque, but what is something they typically value? 

Inclusivity. Mission-driven initiatives. Equality.

That could look like serving underserved families, food pantries—any others-focused events that speak to the desire of inclusivity and mission-first mindsets. 

Don’t hyper-focus on what they can contribute monetarily 

Do you remember what it was like being 26? You probably were not as financially stable as you are now. Most likely, your mortgage is paid off, your kids are married, and you have a pretty set margin for your life.

We can almost guarantee that was not the case at 26. 

Before you harp on Gen Zers not being as voracious of givers, remember that you probably weren’t at that age, either.

But what they may lack in funds, they can make up for in time—if given the opportunity to do so. Gen Z may have different needs than previous generations, but that doesn’t mean they should be excluded from leadership opportunities.

Action Items: 

1. Put yourself in Gen Z shoes

Put yourself in their shoes and ask, “If I were a Gen Z person in the church today, where would I be looking to serve, what would appeal to me?” 

And then go create those things.

2. Build your organizational charts with generational differences in mind

Think about which generations shine in which areas, where they might find joy, who is best suited for what task in any given project, and so on. 

Try to avoid lumping things together. Take the time to delegate in a way that speaks to strengths and interests.

3. Consider picking up “A New Kind of Diversity” by Tim Elmore

Elmore gives a fresh take on understanding different generations and how that can impact how we work and live. 

He addresses the effect of five generations working alongside each other in a typical company, and how to navigate that beyond eye rolls and confusion.

Whether through books or podcasts or face-to-face connection, being intentional about learning more about the younger generations can have ripple effects that go throughout your entire church family. 

Want to learn more about bridging generations, cultivating generosity, and inspiring change in the church? Find Next Sunday on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.