Bridging Generations: Listening, Understanding, and Guiding Our Young People.

In our faith community at Ss. Austin and Gregory with St. Anne’s, Margate, we are blessed to have parishioners of all ages, from the youngest children to those who have lived many seasons of life. Each generation brings its own perspectives, challenges, and strengths, creating a beautifully diverse community united in faith.

However, we know that at times, the differences between younger and older generations can make it challenging to connect. Younger people sometimes feel misunderstood, while older members may find it hard to relate to the experiences and perspectives of today’s youth. But these differences also present a wonderful opportunity. By opening our hearts to listen and understand, we can guide our young people, sharing the gift of faith and the wisdom of experience in a way that helps both generations grow closer to each other and to God.

Here’s how each of us can help foster a supportive, understanding environment where younger and older parishioners connect meaningfully.

1. Listen with an Open Heart

True listening is one of the greatest gifts we can give one another. Sometimes young people feel overlooked or misjudged, and their struggles or views can seem distant from the experiences of older generations. By listening with patience and compassion, we show our young people that they are valued, respected, and understood.

You might start by asking open questions about their experiences, their faith journey, or what they find most meaningful in life. Rather than focusing on correcting or offering advice right away, simply listen. This creates a safe space where young people feel comfortable opening up and allows us to better understand their challenges, dreams, and even their doubts.

2. Share Your Faith in Daily Life

Many young people are searching for ways to integrate faith into their everyday lives. As someone who has walked in faith over many years, you have a valuable perspective on how faith can shape our choices, sustain us through difficult times, and guide us in our interactions with others.

Share your own experiences of finding God in daily life, whether it’s through a routine of morning prayer, a cherished scripture that brings comfort, or moments when faith has helped you make decisions. Real stories of how faith has carried you through ups and downs can inspire and encourage young people, showing them that faith isn’t just something we bring to church on Sunday—it’s a constant source of strength and joy.

3. Encourage Parish Involvement

Many young people today want to make a difference but may not know how to start or feel unsure about how they can get involved in parish life. As a longstanding member of the parish, you have insight into the joys and rewards of serving within our church community.

Encourage younger members to take an active part in the parish, whether it’s through a ministry, youth group, or helping with community outreach. Share stories of how you found purpose and connection through parish involvement, and assure them that their contributions—no matter how small—are valuable. By guiding them to see the beauty in service, you help them find ways to deepen their faith and build meaningful relationships within our community.

4. Speak from Experience, But Stay Open to Their Views

Younger generations face different challenges today than many of us might have encountered in our youth. The world they navigate is often fast-paced, digitally connected, and filled with both opportunities and pressures that can feel overwhelming. They may have different views on topics that weren’t as prominent in past generations, from mental health to social justice to new ways of expressing faith.

When these topics arise, consider sharing your life experiences in a way that connects with their concerns, but also stay open to the new perspectives they bring. Faith is a living journey, and by embracing these conversations, we create an environment where young people feel free to explore and grow spiritually. Through open and respectful dialogue, we show them that the church is a place where all voices can be heard and where every person is valued.

5. Be Patient and Offer Unconditional Support

Guiding young people in faith requires patience, especially as they may still be discovering what they believe and how they want to live out their faith. Rather than expecting them to have it all figured out, offer encouragement and gentle guidance, reminding them that faith is a lifelong journey.

Let them know that it’s okay to ask questions, to experience doubt, and to explore their own path. By reassuring them that they have a supportive church community to turn to, you help create a foundation of faith that will carry them through whatever lies ahead.

A Community Built on Love and Understanding

By listening openly and sharing our lives with honesty and compassion, we create a community that bridges generations and builds relationships of mutual love and understanding. This approach allows young people to benefit from the wisdom of those who have journeyed before them, while also allowing older parishioners to be inspired by the energy, hope, and unique perspectives of youth.

Together, let’s continue to nurture a parish where every person, young and old, feels valued and encouraged on their faith journey. When we come together as one family in Christ, we reflect God’s love in a way that strengthens our community and our faith for generations to come.