This past weekend, Fox and Friends Weekend shone a bright light on an incredible trend taking hold among Gen Z and Gen Alpha: a return to faith. A surge of young people are choosing to embrace a more genuine and straightforward interpretation of Christianity, leaving behind the days of fluffy sermons and watered-down teachings. Instead, they’re seeking a stronger foundation, one that resonates with their yearning for truth and authenticity. But what’s driving this phenomenon? It may just boil down to what some are calling “father hunger.”
Many young men of Gen Z, especially, have grown up in homes where father figures were either absent or lacking in strength. This has left a void that, it seems, they are now trying to fill with a connection to something bigger—an authoritative yet loving figure that many find in God the Father. It’s fascinating how the concept of divine masculinity appeals to these young men, who instinctively relate more to a masculine presence guiding them through life’s challenges. Turning to God offers them not just comfort, but also direction—something they seem to crave more than ever.
Additionally, Gen Z appears to be rounding the corner on the so-called “woke mirage.” Being connected online has made them more discerning about the messages they receive. These young individuals are on a quest for authenticity, often looking up to the skies instead of getting lost in the noise of the digital cosmos. They want something that lasts, something eternal, rather than the temporal distractions that have dominated previous generations. Post-COVID, it seems this quest has only intensified. From hardship, they’ve found strength in their faith as scripture reminds us that even in the face of evil, good can emerge.
One shining example of this new movement is the rising star in Christian music, Forest Frank. His melodies and lyrics resonate with the introspective nature of Gen Z, striking a chord that goes beyond catchy hooks. In fact, his music captures the essence of a deeper spiritual connection, emphasizing themes that reflect timeless truths. One of his popular songs, “Your Way is Better,” encapsulates these ideas brilliantly, urging listeners to embrace the path Jesus laid out for them. Critics who might expect self-centered themes are in for a surprise; his music is about surrendering to God’s will, not cashing in on it.
While young men are streaming back into churches, the same can’t be said yet for young women. There seems to be an issue regarding the influence of what’s often termed the “Jezebel spirit.” This battle for the hearts and souls of young ladies isn’t easy, as societal pressures intertwine with messages that can lead them astray. Many are calling for a return to uplifting figures, like Mary, the mother of Jesus, who offer strength and grace while countering the storm of modern feminism that has arguably created division among women.
This is truly a renaissance moment for the church and Christian values. Even for those who might not identify as believers, it could be beneficial to cheerlead this turnaround and hope more people flock back to the time-honored teachings of the Bible. Values like loving one’s neighbor as oneself and adhering to the Ten Commandments underpin the very bedrock of Western civilization. As trends shift and young people embrace a stronger faith, one can only hope that this wave of spirituality brings forth not just individuals of faith, but a more united and stronger community as well.
