Young people leaving the church?

More than ever our young people are leaving the church... Why is this happening? Can the church leaders stem this exodus? According to research done about 7 out of 10 young adults are leaving the church. This trend is a source of tremendous concern for many as the youth are the ones to carry on in the future. They are the future elders, leaders, pastors etc. Therefore we all should be concerned about this alarming trend. Various reasons for youth leaving the church include: 1. wanting a 'break' from church, 2. judgmental or hypocritical church members, 3. moving away for higher education, 4. work related issues, 5. relocating far away from home church, 6. too busy, 7. not connected with members, 8. disagreement with church doctrines on current issues, 9. hanging out with non church friends, 10 went to church to please parents, friends etc.
Now this being said we now have to examine why those young people who chose to stay did so: 1.church is vital to maintain a relationship with God, 2. it helps with everyday decision making, 3. assists in helping to make the individual a better person, 4. am following the example of a family member or someone else, 5. am involved in a lot of the Church's activities, 6. the church is supportive when individuals are going through hard times, 6. fear of living without the guidance of God.
Therefore the onus is upon church leaders to examine these issues that are causing so many of our youth to abandon church and God. In my home church there are many youth oriented social events and programmes that has had a great measure of success thus far. In my church(adventist) great value is placed upon the youth and we have had several teen deacons, church board members and young people elected to many offices traditionally occupied by the more mature persons. We as older adults need to support and encourage the youngsters in our churches, remember they are the younger members of God's family. Treat them as such! Be blessed.