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Over recent years, academic institutions and organizations across the world have been studying faith trends among younger generations. Some have claimed their research points to an awakening whereas others argue the data shows that young people are continuing to turn away from religion. Yet one trend cuts through the noise: young people are open. Research from several groups — including the independent Environics Institute, the Angus Reid Institute, and the Barna Group — point toward a genuine appetite for more. Cardus, a Canadian Christian think tank, recently laid it out plainly: “The data suggest we are seeing something potentially significant:...

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At Youth Unlimited summer camp, 16-year-old Bentley is a familiar face to younger kids, encouraging campers, supporting staff, and occasionally leading boxing activities. It’s a role he never imagined for himself a few years ago. At eight years old, another student pushed Bentley so hard that he needed stitches in his lip. He was bullied regularly for how he looked and often felt targeted by classmates who picked on him for being different. He remembers being made to feel like there was something wrong with him, while others joined in rather than step in. Bentley felt like he was walking...

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Jenn’s* breath came fast behind her scarf. Sweat beaded on her forehead, not from the layers she’d piled on for the van ride, but because she had never snowboarded before. A teacher had encouraged her to try Youth Unlimited’s Mountain Life program, but as the van climbed the mountain, what had felt like an escape from the stress at home now turned to fear mixed with excitement. At the top, as she stepped out of the van, cool mountain air hit her face, and the most incredible view she’d ever seen filled her eyes. A leader’s voice called out, “Hey...

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The Jesters team was shocked and couldn’t believe they finally got to meet her: Lee — the girl known for signing up but never showing up — miraculously stood at the registration table, ready for a week of summer theatre camp. The team was thrilled to have her. “It was evident this precious young person needed a place to be cared for and feel safe,” says Ryan Scramstad, Jesters Program Director. “And that’s exactly what happened. She had a great week, and despite being shy, she even made a few friends.” “I just remember it being really welcoming,” says Lee....

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