According to the Pew Research Center, Millennials (adults between the ages of 23 and 38) make up 22% of U.S. Catholics. Generation Z (adults below the age of 23) are now becoming active young adults as well. In most parishes, both groups are already represented in some way.
Invite your parish council to reflect on this statistic and consider whether these numbers are reflected in your parish community and the way it allocates its resources. Frame this discussion in a positive light: Instead of thinking, “How do we start a young adult ministry?” consider, “In what ways are we already serving young adults well in this community?” Right now, young adult ministry may consist of intentionally enhancing what you already do well, rather than starting something totally new.
