What is a Young Adult anyway?

Being a young adult, traditionally defined in the United Methodist Church as someone between the ages of 18-35, you would think I might know and understand the characteristics of my own generation.  However, when I accepted a position as a Young Adult Ministries Director at Centenary UMC in Danville, Ky, I felt deep within me that my own experience as a young adult combined with six years serving vocationally in ministry was insufficient knowledge on the subject.  The question that stays at the front of my mind, even in my dreams, is, "Who are You, young adults?"

In Millenials, a great book about my generation (born from 1980-2000), father and son co-authors Thom and Jess Rainer research key characteristics of what is now the largest generation in America's history, 78 million people strong.  Millennials are already stepping into power playing roles, impacting businesses, the workplace, schools, churches, and other sects in today's society.  

One of the most interesting facts brought to my attention in the book is that 96% of young adults believe in the statement, "I believe I can do something great."  Greatness, as defined by my peers is not in terms of fame, wealth, and personal power.  Instead, it is the greater good we are after.  We care more about global awareness, peace, unity, justice, and values than our own fame and fortune.  Sounds a lot like Kingdom building...Surprised?  I was a little at first, but as sat on the thought, I realized that it is not only true of me, but many of my friends and peers.  

The flip side of this coin is the shocking reality that only 13% consider ANY type of spirituality to be vital or important in their lives.  In fact, most young adults aren't thinking about religious matters at all.

Upon examining these two sides of the millennial coin, I can't help but wonder what would happen if our deep rooted passion to see a better world was met with a sustaining and authentic relationship with Jesus Christ.  See, I believe that in an authentic relationship with Christ we become transformed into living temples of God's spirit working in the world.  On our own, even banded together for a good cause, we could never accomplish what can be done through the power and grace of God.

Believer or not, millennials are characterized as optimistic, hopeful, and relational, not to mention the most educated generation of people our world has seen come out of America.  We care about family, we believe in marriage, we love our parents, we respect and desire worth-while mentors, we are diverse and appreciate diversity, and we believe we can make a positive impact for the future.  We work hard and we play harder.  

So, now, I am left with learning about the millenials right here at Centenary UMC, Danville and their friends.  Who are you?  What are your characteristics   Are there cultural differences in KY compared to these nationwide stats?

I am so looking forward to getting to know you and build relationships together within the church family so that we might go out and love millenials unlike ourselves.  If there is one thing I know for sure, it is that young adults are not OK.  They are in need.  They are searching.  And...they have AMAZING potential to make positive changes in the world beyond our wildest dreams.