Whereas, in the same survey 57% of families stated the reason they joined their present church was the strong youth ministry program; and
Whereas, in a survey conducted by Search Institute it was found that only a small minority of youth in Protestant congregations experience a life-transforming faith that is characterized by a strong relationship with God (two-thirds of youth have a dormant or undeveloped faith); and
Whereas, in the same Search Institute survey a small percentage of youth indicate that they actively engage their faith through prayer, Bible reading, service to others, or other spiritual growth activities; and
Whereas, fewer than half of the youth in the Search Institute survey say their church challenges them to think, and few have meaningful relationships with adults in the congregations; and
Whereas, many churches are struggling to maintain an effective youth program; and
Whereas, one of the ways for the church to turn these dismal statistics around and make the church a place where youth want to be is to put a high priority on ministry with youth;
Therefore, be it resolved, that the General Conference of The United Methodist Church include a Youth/Young Adult priority in the 1997-2000 Quadrennial Emphasis for our United Methodist Church.
General Conference Webmaster: Susan Brumbaugh
PETS Creator: John Brawn
Petition Text: 20235-DI-NonDis-O
1996 United Methodist General Conference