10 Ways Millennials Are Shaping Women’s Ministry

An article I read about Millennials on ThomRainer.com inspired this article. First read the original article, 10 Ways Millennials Are Shaping Local Congregations Today. Then come back here, and we’ll consider how these issues are shaping women’s ministry as well.

1. More of them are attracted to smaller venues.
The need for community within this demographic may be a major part of this trend. Intimacy within smaller groups as opposed to large events may need to be a consideration for your team.

2. They see culture as something to influence, rather than an enemy to denounce.
One of the markers of this generation is that they believe they are here to make this world a better place in their lifetime. We can partner with them to make positive changes in our culture one person at a time.

3. They like to cooperate with others.
They want the fighting to stop and cooperation to take center stage in all areas of their lives. Let’s be catalysts for that in women’s ministry.

4. They abhor worship wars.
This is not an issue for them at this stage in life. Many love both praise songs and hymns. And so do I!

5. They love churches that love their communities.
There as so many opportunities within our own neighborhoods to touch lives, help the helpless and love on people. Let the young women help you decide what they want to do to love those close to home.

6. They are attracted to churches that emphasize groups.
Groups help us do life together in healthy ways. They help us have accountability, and challenge us to grow spiritually while also providing a safe place to share hurts and struggles.

7. They want to be trained on their schedule.
Although it’s never bad to have training live in person, offer other options as well. Do meetings by email or conference calls and consider online training that can be done at the convenience of the learner.

8. They will question almost everything.
Why is not a bad question to ask. Answer honestly when a Millennial asks you why you do ministry the way you do. If you don’t know, now might be a good time to find out! “The way we’ve always done it” doesn’t cut it today.

9. They are slow to join, and slow to leave.
Perhaps we need to just continue to love them, connect with them and help them find where God is calling and wants to use them. Letting them discover this means they will be serious about their commitment.

10. They want to be involved.
Young women today are ready to serve and lead. If we do not find ways to involve them using their gifts and interests, giving them responsibilities and trusting them to lead (all the while walking alongside them), they will find another place to invest their time and attention.

Today we sometimes struggle to connect all the generations of women, but that is what God has called us to do through ministry to and with women in the church. Ask God to show you and your leadership team ways to overcome the differences to make connections that have eternal impact.

For more information, view additional articles on Generational Ministry on this site.