The handout opens with an activity, not a lecture. Each participant writes one concern they have for Gen Z, pins it to a prayer wall, and then the group prays through every request together.
Do that now in the prayer wall tool—write the first concern that comes to mind, and add to it as you read.
Six strengths to celebrate
“Say loud: one positive quality of Gen Z that we can thank God for.”
The session insists on starting with gratitude rather than diagnosis. Before a single weakness is named, here is what is genuinely good about this generation.
They grew up with smartphones, tablets, social media, and the internet. They are very comfortable with technology and quick to learn new digital tools.
They prefer video, short content, and TikTok-style communication. They respond well to visuals, interactive media, and quick information.
They want real, honest communication. They dislike fake or overly polished content.
Gen Z often cares about social issues—justice, equality, the environment. They respond when leaders stand for something meaningful.
They express identity through fashion, music, and content creation. Many explore entrepreneurship early.
They look for meaning and purpose in studies, work, and faith. Messages that connect to real life and personal growth impact them.
Do the exercise: say out loud—or write down—one positive quality of Gen Z that you can thank God for and celebrate. Not a polite compliment; something true.
Six challenges to shepherd
Know, so you can reach
Only after the thanks does the handout turn to the struggles. Read these as pastoral needs, not as accusations.
Identity confusion
Gen Z is constantly asking: “Who am I?” “Where do I belong?” “Am I valuable?”
They face social media comparison, pressure to create a perfect online identity, and confusion about purpose and identity in a fast-changing world.
Spiritual issue
They do not know who they are in Christ.
Loneliness and mental-health struggles
Even though they are digitally connected, many Gen Z feel isolated, anxious, and depressed.
The handout's diagnosis is simple and uncomfortable: they replace real relationships with screens.
Spiritual issue
Connection without relationship leaves the soul alone.
Overload of information, lack of truth
Gen Z is exposed to thousands of voices, endless opinions, and relativism—“your truth / my truth.”
Spiritual issue
They struggle to identify absolute truth.
Distrust of institutions
Gen Z often mistrust churches, leaders, and organised religion. They want authenticity, not traditional structures.
Spiritual issue
Trust must be earned through transparency, not demanded by position.
Short attention span
Because of TikTok and reels, messages must be short, clear, visual, and memorable. Long sermons without engagement lose them quickly.
Spiritual issue
The message does not change; the doorway into it must be narrower.
Fear of commitment
They hesitate to commit to church, stick with a ministry, or make long-term decisions. They want flexibility and freedom.
Spiritual issue
Discipleship is learned through staying, so this is the deepest pastoral need.
The line worth memorising
What they need instead of criticism
Gen Z does not need more criticism. They need shepherds. Tariq Emmanuel, Key Characteristics of Gen Z
Everything in this guide points the same direction. A shepherd knows the sheep, walks ahead of them, and stays when it is inconvenient. That is why this library pairs this page with Biblical Mentoring.
Mission practice
Complete a personal list to reach Gen Z
The handout ends with an assignment: complete a personal list of the Gen Z people you will reach. Not a strategy for a group—a list of names.
- Write between three and ten names of Gen Z people you already know.
- Beside each name, note one thing they are carrying from the challenges above.
- Beside each name, note one strength in them worth thanking God for.
- Put every name on your prayer wall, and set one goal in the planner for the next ninety days.
“Key Characteristics of Gen Z”
By Tariq Emmanuel. A teaching handout on knowing Gen Z in order to reach them. Used here with attribution; the full teaching belongs to the author.