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Seeking Episcopal young adult input in ‘Toward a New Generation of Leaders’ survey

November 5, 2024
Office of Public Affairs

The Episcopal Church’s Department of Faith Formation is seeking survey participants ages 18-32 as part of a three-year, partially grant-funded project to identify the gifts and challenges of Gen Z ministry within the church and enhance program development. The survey—available online here—is open until Dec. 2.

The first phase of data collection, which surveyed parish leaders and Episcopal camp counselors, resulted in these initial findings.

Young adults currently or recently engaged in Episcopal Church activities, particularly those involved with Faith Formation’s youth ministries, young adult and campus ministries, Episcopal Service Corps, and Young Adult Service Corps, are encouraged to respond to this newest survey. Participants will be asked for their impressions, experiences, and recommendations for ministries.

Launched in June, the first phase of “The Episcopal Church Leadership Project: Toward a New Generation of Leaders” involves outreaches to clergy, young adults, and Episcopal youth leaders to find out what is working or broken within church ministries that support young adults.

“We are excited to be able to collect data that will better inform our decisions about how best to meet and minister to the current landscape of young adults coming to The Episcopal Church,” said Bronwyn Clark Skov, manager for Safe Church and special projects. “We hope to learn from many in this age group about their experiences and recommendations.”

The survey—funded in part by a $100,000 grant from Trinity Church Wall Street—will be directed by research company Sacred Playgrounds. Survey results will be compiled into a report—to be shared broadly—that recommends changes to leadership training for those who work with young adults; changes in young adult preparation for leadership in The Episcopal Church; and changes to models for young adult ministry.

Phase 2 of the project will involve developing, testing, and evaluating models of change; Phase 3 will involve wider church roll-out and training on those models.

Questions? Email Bronwyn Clark Skov.