Generation Z is experiencing a notable shift toward spirituality and religion. Recent reports indicate that almost two-thirds of young people in this group consider themselves either spiritual or religious, signaling a marked departure from the trend of increasing secularism that has dominated recent decades. Many Gen Z individuals express a belief in a higher power, and their active involvement in church and prayer is reshaping the conversation around faith in a society increasingly defined by progressive values.
This generation is not just finding solace in traditional faith; they also embrace the supernatural. A significant number of Gen Zers claim to have experienced miracles in their own lives. While this newfound embrace of spirituality is certainly positive, challenges remain. Issues stemming from social media and external pressures still threaten the mental health of many young people. Anxiety, poor body image, and even violence are pervasive concerns exacerbated by a culture that often favors unattainable standards and depersonalized interactions over genuine human connection.
The surge in religious interest among Gen Z needs cultivation. Churches and places of worship provide a vital community where real interactions can flourish, something that is often absent in the digital landscapes navigated through social media and video games. Though these modern platforms are sometimes dismissed, they do not have to exist in opposition to faith. There is space for both… a point illustrated by the life and legacy of Carlo Acutis, the first millennial saint, who was canonized in 2025.
Carlo Acutis was a gifted young programmer known for creating a website that highlighted Eucharistic miracles around the world. Diagnosed with leukemia at just 15 years old, he faced death with a spirit of giving, offering his suffering for the wellbeing of others. His life, though cut short, serves as an inspiring narrative for many young people today. After his death, two miraculous healings were attributed to him, enhancing his status as a spiritual role model.
The first miracle occurred in 2013 when a young Brazilian boy, suffering from a severe pancreatic condition, was healed after being blessed with a relic of Acutis. Medical confirmation followed, solidifying the impact of Acutis’s legacy. The second miracle took place in 2023 when an Italian college student, following Acutis’s story and offering her prayers at his tomb, miraculously recovered from severe injuries sustained in a bicycle accident. These events paved the way for Acutis’s canonization by Pope Leo IV.
Through his life and actions, Acutis bridged the realms of technology and spirituality. He engaged with the digital world while simultaneously deepening his relationship with God, resonating deeply with a generation that grapples with similar balances in their own lives. This connection to faith and technology has made it easier for young people to find and explore their spirituality amidst the complexities of modern life.
However, for lasting change to take root, families must prioritize faith early on. Statistics reveal a worrying trend: while over half of baby boomers attended church services as children and received religious education, these figures drop significantly for Gen Z. Only 40% of young people today have the same church experiences as their predecessors, highlighting the gap in spiritual heritage that new generations are missing.
To truly facilitate the spiritual growth of young people, communities must rally around the structure of family and faith. Planting these values early can guide youth toward a deeper understanding of reality, one that transcends the limitations of digital screens. The positive momentum toward religious engagement among Gen Z offers hope, but it is a journey that must be actively nurtured to overcome the distractions and challenges of the contemporary world.
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