Mobilizing Gen Z: Challenges and Opportunities for the Global Age of Missions
Ebook
A God-Designed Generation for a God-Given Task
The scale and scope of the global, technological, and cultural changes of the past two decades are unprecedented. For the first time in history, American churches and agencies are mobilizing from a post-Christian cultural context and to new collaborations with a global mission force. Amidst these rapid changes, how can mission leaders continue to ensure that we fulfill the Great Commission mandate to disciple Christ-worshippers from every tribe, tongue, and nation?
In Mobilizing Gen Z, Jolene Erlacher and Katy White blend leading research with the voices of current mission practitioners to unpack the dynamics behind our changing culture and the resulting impact on the church. And perhaps not-so-surprisingly, they reach the conclusion that God has already provided a solution for such a time as this—Gen Z (b. 1996– 2010).
Through an in-depth profile of this rising cohort—their characteristics, worldview, strengths and weaknesses—the authors illustrate both why Gen Z is sorely needed and why we must seek to engage them differently than previous generations. Encouraging and winsome, Mobilizing Gen Z provides practical tools and strategies for engaging, equipping, and retaining Gen Z missionaries. Are we ready to pass the torch?
Introduction
Part 1: A Changing Missions Context
Chapter 1: Cultural Shifts
Chapter 2: Post-Christian America
Chapter 3: Post-Missions Priorities and Perceptions
Chapter 4: The Global Age of Missions
Part 2: Understanding Gen Z
Chapter 5: Introduction to Gen Z
Chapter 6: Trends Influencing Gen Z
Chapter 7: Gen Z Mindsets and Goals
Chapter 8: Gen Z Identity and Sexuality
Chapter 9: Gen Z Faith and Ministry Perspectives
Part 3: Mobilization Strategies
Chapter 10: Relationships
Chapter 11: The Coaching Approach
Chapter 12: Coaching Conversations
Chapter 13: Communication
Chapter 14: Motivation and Calling
Part 4: A Vision for the Future
Chapter 15: Beyond Mobilization
Chapter 16: Global Collaboration
Chapter 17: Leading Innovation
Chapter 18: For Such a Time as This
Appendix A: Resource List
Appendix B: Snapshot of Gen Z
Appendix C: Mobilization Assessment Guide
Appendix D: Mobilization Question List
Bibliography
About the Authors
In Mobilizing Gen Z, Jolene Erlacher and Katy White help move us beyond the shocking
reality that “everything” has changed and continues to change in the world of missions
mobilization to a place of hopeful reengagement fueled by a vision of something
new, something beautiful. They offer insightful views of the challenges and the
opportunities inherent to mobilizing Gen Z as whole-life, whole-world disciples.
Ruth Hubbard
Vice President, Urbana, InterVarsity Christian Fellowship
This is a must-read for those who care about both the future of missions and the
Generation Z goers who can lead the way to a humble partnership with the global
church. Jolene and Katy’s approach is research-based, compassionate, and never
settles for easy answers. Most importantly, it’s hopeful.
Rebecca Hopkins
Award-winning journalist and former global worker
If we want to see the name of Jesus made famous in every tongue, tribe, people,
and nation, we must send more missionaries. In order to do that, we will have to
contextualize the missions message to the next generation of believers. Erlacher and
White not only conducted the research but share from their experience as well in this
masterfully written book. It will revolutionize the way you mobilize Gen Z.
Dave Jacob
Director of Mobilization, World Gospel Mission
Founder and Director, Center for Missionary Mobilization and Retention
As a Gen Z “goer” myself, I recommend this book to all who find their hearts wrapped
in the Great Commission and yet baffled by how to move forward. Katy and Jolene
have articulated an insightful vision of today’s missional landscape that helps me
understand, and adapt to, the cultural moments we find ourselves in. I’ve seen firsthand
in my own journey the unique challenges facing this generation and how the
mobilization strategies outlined in this book have served to propel me forward—for such
a time as this!
Jenna
Gen Zer serving in East Asia
I want to see a copy of this book in the hands of every mission leader and mobilizer
I know. The authors weave intense, scholarly research into the fabric of an engaging
read. They balance an honest look at Gen Z’s strengths and weaknesses with an
understanding and appreciation for that generation. They present a realistic yet
inspiring picture of what Gen Z can bring to the cause of missions—but not only that.
They also provide the tools other generations need for mentoring Gen Z to “take the
same commission, the same glad message” and “bear the torch … proclaiming that
Jesus died and rose.”
Don Johnson
Assistant to US Director, SEND International
Board Chair, MissionWorks
The baton of the Great Commission is being handed to the emerging leadership of
Gen Z, and Jolene and Katy’s book comes at the right time. Mobilizing Gen Z provides
critical insights for leaders to better understand and prepare Gen Zers for the unique
challenges and opportunities of what lies ahead. The authors bring a passionate and
clear message characterized by sound research and Spirit-led discernment that reveals
the incredible potential and fit for Gen Z in God’s global mission. I highly recommend
this book to leaders who are influencing this generation to reach the world with the
gospel.
Darin Kindle
Vice President of Academic Affairs, Bethany Global University
Insightful. Hope-filled. Visionary. Jolene and Katy offer a compelling reimagination
of the future of missions within a post-missions culture in where Gen Z will lead this
global “everyone to everywhere” movement with the marks of awareness, humility,
and collaboration. As Christians wrestle with trends in missions, this book on Gen Z is
absolutely essential, offering a culturally attuned and compelling vision for tomorrow.
Jesse Kroeze
Executive Director, Touch the World
Jolene and Katy do a great job of unpacking critical insights into the challenges
faced by Gen Z and their journey toward being “goers.” Mobilizing Gen Z is a must-read
for parents and leaders of both the church and mission organizations if we are
to successfully disciple Gen Z toward effective ministry, especially in the overseas
context. Don’t miss out on being a part of how God is working through Gen Z to show
his mercy to the world he dearly loves!
Rachael Stoner
Mother of Four Gen Zers
Pilot and Aviation Engagement Manager, JAARS, Inc.
In this timely book, Jolene and Katy provide global mission organizations with much
needed clarity and advice as we seek to draw Gen Z into action on the field. They have
done a masterful job of laying the foundation for understanding current generational
struggles with clear strategies for addressing their needs. This book does not skirt
hard issues nor does it seek to give simplistic answers; rather, it encourages us to love
a new generation that is being raised up for “such a time as this.”
Eric Kellerer
Director of Waypoints, Mission Aviation Fellowship
We all struggle to understand young people in the context of missions. How refreshing
to read a book that synthesizes the historical and modern realities impacting the
thinking of Gen Z. Even more, what a joy to read about a future in missions where we
harness the strengths of the very people we are seeking to understand. God has a plan
and has provided people of each generation to carry the gospel to the world. Jolene
and Katy help us comprehend and see past the challenges of today, and that it is not
about the demise of missions, but about revising how we do missions to reach still
more for generations to come!
Brian Heerwagen
CEO, MissionWorks.global
From the perspective of a Millennial missionary, I appreciate how the book Mobilizing
Gen Z by Jolene and Katy clearly expresses their desire and intention to help raise
up the next generation of missionaries. Their writing both challenges and inspires
me to actively engage and fulfill my role in shaping, coaching, and encouraging the
generations that follow. I feel empowered and equipped to come alongside Gen Zers
in their journey into global missions, in the hopes of one day handing off the baton as
they carry on the legacy of building up a global force that brings all nations, tribes, and
tongues to a knowledge and love of the one and true God.
Ally Lee
Missionary with South America Mission
- Title: Mobilizing Gen Z: Challenges and Opportunities for the Global Age of Missions
- Authors: Jolene Erlacher, Katy White
- Publisher: William Carey Publishing
- Print Publication Date: 2022
- Logos Release Date: 2023
- Language: English
- Resources: 1
- Format: Digital › Ebook
- ISBNs: 9781645083160, 9781645083146, 1645083144, 1645083160
- Resource ID: LLS:9781645083160
- Resource Type: Monograph
- Metadata Last Updated: 2024-06-21T01:39:50Z