Do not let anyone look down on you because you are young, but be an example for the believers in your speech, your conduct, your love, faith, and purity – Timothy 4:12
I fell from the church during my so-called “emerging adult” years (age 18-35). There are a number of reasons I can point to for this happening. I felt “judged” by elders in the church. I saw hypocrisy among the same people who were telling me to be a better Christian. 8:00 AM Sunday morning wasn’t really working for my schedule anymore to worship and there weren’t any meaningful weekday evening activities for people my age. There was plenty for people with families and for those who were retired, but not for me or anyone my age. So, as a result, when I did go back to an organized church, I voiced my opinion that there needs to be more ways for emerging adults to engage in their faith and spirituality. I’ve been beating that drum ever since.
Fast forward to this past spring. I was approached to be a mentor for a program designed specifically for young adults. There was no way I could let this opportunity pass me by. This is exactly what I needed when I was in my 20’s. Though I may have not been able to do something like at that time, I will be sure that others will have the opportunities I never had. Beloved You: Conversation Circles will be kicking off this fall and I want everyone to think of someone age 18-35 that may consider joining a cohort. Simply ask the following questions:
Are you curious about how your work/career and spiritual life connect?
Have you ever wondered about a call to ministry?
Have you soured on organized religion and wonder where God fits in your life?
Are you hungry for peer connection and meaning-making conversations?
If you said “Yes” to any of these questions, then contact Pr. Luke or go to nemnsynod.org/young-adult to learn more and apply to join one of the cohorts. There are a lot of emerging adults yearning to explore their faith and spirituality. Let’s give them the opportunity to do just that.
–Pr. Luke