Serving as the Youth Representative in the Church of the Nazarene Africa Region Urban Ministry Team was a transformative experience that deepened my understanding of the challenges faced by young people in urban areas. This article examines the challenges faced by young people in urban areas and the role of the Church of the Nazarene in addressing these issues through youth development initiatives. Drawing on African theologians and social scientists, especially Stephan De Beer’s theology of homelessness, this research highlights the disengagement of millennials from the Church and explores strategies for fostering spiritual growth, personal development, and leadership among young people. The importance of meaningful connections, digital engagement, and relevant programme design is discussed, emphasising the need for further research into these areas.
Urbanisation and modernisation have presented unique challenges for young people in Africa, especially with regard to their engagement in religious activities. Millennials, in particular, seem increasingly disengaged from traditional institutions such as the Church, as they search for relevance in other areas of their lives. This phenomenon is evident in urban contexts, where the Church of the Nazarene has sought to engage youth through various programmes and initiatives.
Recognising the Challenge: A Call for Further Investigation
One of the most pressing issues identified during the tenure as Youth Representative was the disengagement of young people from the Church in urban areas. Many millennials appeared to be seeking meaning and relevance outside the traditional frameworks offered by religious institutions. According to Dr Kwame Bediako, a leading African theologian, it is essential to re-evaluate the Church’s approaches to youth engagement and to rethink how we connect with the younger generation within the African context (Bediako, 1995). Bediako’s perspective calls for an in-depth exploration of the cultural and social factors contributing to this disengagement, and the Church must develop innovative strategies to engage with young people effectively.
This challenge of disengagement can also be understood through Stephan De Beer’s theology of homelessness. De Beer (2008) argues that homelessness is not only a physical condition but also a spiritual and emotional state of disconnection from community and belonging. Many young people in urban areas experience a form of “spiritual homelessness,” where they do not feel at home in the traditional Church setting. This theology speaks directly to the experience of millennials who may feel alienated by institutional religion and are searching for spiritual fulfilment elsewhere (De Beer, 2008).
We need to re-evaluate our approaches and reimagine how we can connect with the younger generation within the African context.
Dr. Kwame Bediako, a renowned African theologian
Fostering Meaningful Connections: A Journey of Mutual Discovery
The significance of personal and authentic connections in engaging with young people cannot be overstated. Building relationships through direct engagement, such as attending youth events and visiting Nazarene churches in urban communities, proved to be an effective way to understand the unique challenges, dreams, and aspirations of urban youth. Professor Afe Adogame, a scholar of religion and society, argues that the Church must create spaces where young people can express themselves freely and engage in dialogue that fosters mutual discovery (Adogame, 2013). The cultivation of such spaces promotes a sense of belonging and shared exploration of faith, which is crucial for re-engaging the younger generation in religious life.
In addition, De Beer’s theology emphasises the importance of “home-making” as a spiritual act. For young people, the Church must become a place where they feel they belong, where their voices are heard, and where their unique struggles are addressed. The Church should therefore facilitate the creation of these spiritual homes by actively listening to the needs of youth and creating spaces where they feel safe and accepted (De Beer, 2008).
The Church should strive to create spaces where young people can freely express themselves and engage in mutual dialogue, fostering a sense of belonging and shared exploration of faith.
Professor Afe Adogame, a scholar of religion and society
Cultivating Youth Development: Unleashing Inner Potential
The Church of the Nazarene Africa Region – Urban Ministry team has made significant efforts to equip young people with practical skills and foster their personal and spiritual growth. However, further research is needed to explore the most effective methods for nurturing youth development in the African context. Dr Mercy Oduyoye, a prominent African feminist theologian, emphasises that young people possess immense potential, and the Church must take proactive steps to empower them to discover and utilise their gifts (Oduyoye, 2001). By providing leadership opportunities and creating environments that foster spiritual maturity, the Church can play a pivotal role in helping youth unlock their full potential. De Beer (2008) suggests that when young people feel disconnected from traditional structures, they also feel disconnected from their own potential. Therefore, the Church should serve as a space where young people can cultivate their gifts in an environment that nurtures their sense of identity and purpose.
Young people possess immense potential, and the Church must create spaces that empower them to uncover their gifts and engage in meaningful service.
Dr. Mercy Oduyoye, a prominent feminist theologian
Creating Engaging Platforms: Harnessing the Power of Technology and Beyond
Recognising the importance of meeting millennials where they are, the Church must leverage technology and social media to facilitate connection, disseminate relevant content, and encourage open dialogue. However, there is a need for research to examine the impact of digital engagement on young people’s spiritual growth and well-being.
We must study how digital platforms can be used as transformative tools while remaining mindful of the potential risks and challenges they present.
Professor Ezra Chitando, a scholar in theology and religious studies
Relevant Programs for Millennials: Exploring Their Unique Needs
Tailoring programs to meet the specific needs of millennials in urban areas is crucial for their engagement in the Church. However, it is important to conduct comprehensive research to understand the nuanced challenges faced by young people and to design programs that are holistic, inclusive, and relevant. As Dr. Isabel Phiri, a distinguished African theologian and ecumenist, emphasizes, “Programs should address the social, economic, and psychological realities of young people, empowering them to navigate the complexities of their lives while nurturing their spiritual growth.”
Programs should address the social, economic, and psychological realities of young people, empowering them to navigate the complexities of their lives while nurturing their spiritual growth.
Dr. Isabel Phiri, a theologian and ecumenist
Serving as the Youth Representative in the Church of the Nazarene Africa Region Urban Ministry Team revealed significant areas for further exploration in nurturing youth development within the Church. Drawing from the wisdom of prominent African theologians and social scientists, we recognise the need for deeper research and reflection. By embracing these findings and conducting in-depth investigations, the Church can refine its strategies, engage with young people more effectively, and create transformative spaces for mutual discovery, growth, and faith exploration.
