Millennial-ish: 20s, 30s, 40s in Sarasota/Bradenton/Parrish

Yes, each gathering determines what needs they want to meet and then comes together to meet those needs or partners with organizations in our area.

Anyone who is a millennial — or close in age to one (born between 1975-2005). As of 2026, that's roughly 20s, 30s, & 40s.

We have gatherings and events in Sarasota, Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, Palmetto, and Parrish. So pretty much throughout Sarasota and Manatee counties.

Not at this time, but most of our events are child friendly, so they can join in the fun.

Always be Sincere
Young people don't appreciate insincerity. Honestly is important to them, especially for young adults who are from bad neighborhoods or have a bad family upbringing. These young adults need to know they can trust you and you need to show them that they can trust God. Churches who show sincerity in their faith and intentions are more likely to attract young adults and reduce the number of those leaving the church. Ensure your congregation has a good reputation for being genuine and loving. Encourage congregational members to show love and respect towards younger generations. Be truthful in your words and actions and you'll gain their trust and respect.

Avoid Being Hypocritical
Hypocrisy is one of the reasons why the younger generation tends to leave the church. It is hard to follow someone who does not practice what they preach. Your church, therefore, needs to consistently follow good Christian values. Sometimes it may not be the church itself, but rather the hypocrisy of a member or two making a simple mistake or not acting in accordance with church values. It is important to prevent this behavior from occurring by reminding church members about following good values, but also reassuring the young adults that everyone makes mistakes and showing them that the church and congregation have more love than hypocrisy.

Be Authentic
Young adults appreciate an authentic church. The generation considers honesty and authenticity as important features and your church needs to follow these standards. It may not always be easy for church members to follow the Bible, especially in circumstances when negative and unpredictable life events occur. Nobody is perfect but young adults are not seeking perfection. They know that everyone has bad days and nobody is perfect, including themselves. Showing them that the church remains faithful to Christianity and members strive to be better Christians every day is better than trying to be perfect. After all, we are all human.

Be Supportive
A church needs to support the next generation and show them that they can offer them support during difficult times. It is best to guide younger members, rather than be disapproving of their choices. It is the modern world and we need to show support over their choices when it comes to school, marriage, or career aspirations. Of course, not all of their decisions will match Scripture but churches need to show support while encouraging young adults to follow Christianity. Speaking to them and listening to them will help to show them support, rather than being dismissive of the young adults and the choices they make.

Be Forgiving
Forgiveness is essential to promote good Christian values and faith in God. As we previously mentioned, judgment is not something that the Lord put on this earth for. Humans have sinned and will continue to sin at some point but it is the church's responsibility to forgive them and teach them how to be better Christians. Young adults want to know that their church will do this. They seek a forgiving church, rather than a harsh one.

It is best to be encouraging towards Christian values and show forgiveness than to inflict hate or punishment for simple wrongdoing or bad values.

Inspire Young Adults
Churches need to be inspirational to attract and retain young adults. Young adults are at a critical time of their life where they require guidance and motivation the most to become responsible adults. Sermons need to include inspirational stories and examples of good Christian behavior displayed in society. Activities for young adults should also be inspiring and uplifting. The idea is to raise their spirits and keep them interested in church life. Good churches encourage all members to interact and this leads to members inspiring the young adults through stories and examples of their hard work ethic.

Do Not Judge
Young adults don't want to be in churches that are judgemental and rude. Churches should resist judging and criticism as we are here to save the world, not judge. Healthy Churches do not judge as the only judgment should come from the Lord. HE is fairer than us and far more equipped to do the judging. Good churches know that we are here to serve the Lord and Savior and help his disciples to find their way. We must strive to show love and respect at all times.

Be Welcoming
Entering a new church or Christianity service can be overwhelming at first. Young adults might know who to sit by, how to interact with members, and how to participate in church activities. They will appreciate a warm welcome and guidance when attending a new church. First impressions matter and a church should welcome them with open arms. It will help if everyone personally greets young adults and introduce them to the congregation. Someone should be assigned to help the young adults find their way by letting them know the schedule for church and young adult activities and being there for them should they need help.