In an increasingly secular world, it may come as a surprise that Christianity is seeing a revival - especially among Gen Z. While overall religious affiliation is declining, data suggests that a growing number of young people are reconnecting with faith. But what’s behind this shift? This article explores the cultural, emotional, and digital forces drawing Gen Z back to Christianity.
According to The Church Times’ census (2025), there has been a fall in people classifying themselves as Christian. However, amongst the Gen Z population, there has been a rise in people attending church. Research found that in 2018, just 4% of people aged 18 to 24 (Gen Z) said they went to church at least monthly, but flash forward to today and this figure is now 16% - making them the second most likely age group to attend church regularly.
The surge can be seen in many different ways, one, importantly for us, is book sales! Bible sales in Britain rose by 87% between 2019 and 2024 (Christian Today, 2025), with faith-based fiction aimed at Gen Z up 12%, reflecting their renewed spiritual curiosity.
As we know, the world is undergoing rapid and unpredictable change, creating a sense of instability that affects everyone, but particularly the younger generations. For many members of Gen Z, this uncertainty has sparked a deeper search for stability, meaning, and a sense of security. One possible response to this climate of uncertainty is a renewed interest in faith, as religion can offer a framework for understanding the world, a sense of purpose, and reassurance in times of change.
The COVID-19 pandemic brought with it an overwhelming sense of loneliness for many young people. With schools, universities, and social spaces shut down, Gen Z faced prolonged isolation during some of the most socially formative years of their lives. This disconnection left many searching for a sense of belonging and deeper connection. For some, religion has filled that gap - offering not just spiritual guidance, but a strong sense of community, shared values, and emotional support. In an uncertain and isolating time, faith provided a space where young people could feel seen, heard, and part of something greater than themselves.
Rising living costs have only worsened feelings of disconnection. With many working long hours in efforts to try and stay afloat, this leaves little time for social life. This has led to swathes of young people finding support and structure through religion. Christianity can act as a much needed anchor, providing a built-in community during a time when traditional forms of connection feel increasingly out of reach.
The rise of social media—and the visibility of Christian influencers on platforms like TikTok and Instagram—has made faith more accessible, engaging, and relatable to Gen Z. From short sermons to lifestyle content, Christianity is being presented in a way that feels modern and authentic. By sharing personal stories and beliefs, these influencers create intimacy and inspiration, helping to normalise faith and making it easier for young people to explore spirituality outside traditional settings leading to a contributing factor towards the growth of Christianity within Gen Z.
Gen Z’s turn toward Christianity reflects a desire for stability, community, and meaning in uncertain times. From pandemic loneliness to digital influence, faith is becoming a modern anchor for a generation searching for connection.
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