Date

9-25-2025

Department

Rawlings School of Divinity

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Christian Leadership (PhD)

Chair

Andy Wood

Keywords

Christian, Leadership, ministry, Gen Z, Generation Z, Church, Christian Leadership, Apologetics, Missions, Service, Mentorship, Devotions, Free Will Baptist

Disciplines

Christianity

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative phenomenological research was to apprehend what has kept Generation Z individuals to continue attending church in a post Christian culture. Understanding what keeps this demographic committed to their faith communities is essential for the FWB church. Focusing on Gen Z individuals that have stayed faithful to their local FWB church gives insight on why Gen Z individuals that have grown up attending church have abandoned their faith. The data collected through in-depth, semi structured interviews with Gen Z participants who met the criteria of sustained attendance and involvement in their local FWB church was practiced. The research that was conducted endeavored to uncover what type of programs would have success to keep Gen Z plugged in and faithfully attending their local Free Will Baptist church. There are several ways churches seek to develop into the establishment they want to be and that God has called them to be. The shift to examining Gen Z entirely when it comes to FWB churches is insufficient and needed. To achieve long lasting goals, the local church must evaluate its present condition, establish a plan moving forward, and engage in imperative modifications to reach its desired objectives.

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