Fr Shawn and Melisa Gray follow up a youth focused Sunday with a discussion about the vital topic of youth in the church. They delve into the real challenges facing today's teens - from mental health struggles to questions of faith - and explore how the church community can rise to meet these needs. They talk about personal experiences, both successes and setbacks, in connecting with youth. They challenge common misconceptions and offer practical strategies for creating a church where teens truly belong and thrive. With insights that will reshape perspectives on youth ministry and exciting updates on upcoming programs, this conversation promises to inspire listeners to play a transformative role in young people's lives. It's an episode that could change not just how we view youth in the church, but how we engage with them too.
Join us at www.rezaustin.com
00:00 - Intro
09:41 - Why is it important to focus on youth?
12:43 - Youth Mental Health
16:39 - Church for doubting youth
20:08 - What can disagreement look like?
25:10 - Getting Kids to ask questions
28:15 - Make space for doubt and wonder?
30:38 - Our Values
43:27 - Telling Communal Stories that include our Youth
46:01 - Space to ask the three big questions: Who am I? Where do I fit? What difference can I make?
50:28 - Wrapping Up
