If you’ve ever wondered whether Gen Z still wants anything to do with God, this conversation is for you. Dr. Tanita Maddox, Gen Z expert and the National Director for Generational Impact at Young Life, has spent 26 years on the front lines of Gen Z ministry, and what she taught me about talking to Gen Z about God completely reframed how I see this generation — and it’s the most hopeful conversation I’ve had in a long time.
We dig into why relationships — not statistics, not sermons, not slick programs — are still the doorway into faith for young people. Tanita shares the three things Gen Z says makes them actually feel listened to, why so many of them trust a stranger on TikTok more than the adults in their own home, and the surprising reason AI is becoming a competing spiritual authority in their lives. We also talk honestly about why being comfortable with being uncomfortable might be the most important skill we can give our kids — and ourselves.
This one is for parents wondering how to reach their teenager, for pastors wondering why Gen Z church attendance doesn’t always translate into real faith, and for anyone who’s ever felt rejected while trying to love someone well. There is so much hope found in this conversation, and I think you’re going to walk away encouraged, equipped, and ready to show up differently in the lives of the young people God has placed around you.
Who is Tanita Maddox?
Dr. Tanita Maddox is a Gen Z expert and the National Director for Generational Impact at Young Life. With over 26 years of youth ministry experience, she specializes in analyzing modern adolescent culture, diagnosing where legacy models fail, and training leaders on how to build authentic, localized relationships with Generation Z.
Tanita’s links
Scriptures
To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak; I have become all things to all men, so that I may by all means save some.
1 Corinthians 9:22 NASB95
Our children will also serve him. Future generations will hear about the wonders of the Lord.
Psalm 22:30 NLT
Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, my God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your mighty acts to all who are to come.
Psalm 71:18 NIV
“Now when David had served God’s purpose in his own generation, he fell asleep; he was buried with his ancestors and his body decayed.
Acts 13:36 NIV
Inside the tent the Lord spoke to Moses face-to-face, as a man speaks to his friend. Afterwards Moses would return to the camp, but the young man who assisted him, Joshua (son of Nun), stayed behind in the Tabernacle.
Exodus 33:11 TLB
You, however, know all about my teaching, my way of life, my purpose, faith, patience, love, endurance,
2 Timothy 3:10 NIV
