The Anxious Generation Goes to Church: What the Research Says about What Younger Generations Need (and Want) from Your Church

by Thom S. Rainer

A new generation is going to church. But is the church ready?

Church consultant and researcher Thom Rainer believes God is at work in this generation, and he believes that this moment in time has created unique opportunities for churches to grow, thrive, and revive.

The culture is at inflection point. Nearly two-thirds of Gen Zers reported experiencing at least one mental health problem in the past two years. This statistic was lower for all older generations, including Millennials (51%), Gen Xers (29%) and Boomers (14%). Gen Z is the loneliest generation of Americans, lacking deep relationships and offline connection. Sixty-eight percent of Gen Z feel like nobody knows them well. That is one reason why this generation is called the anxious generation. Researchers have identified everything from social media to pandemic lockdowns as the prime culprit of why Gen Z is struggling with issues like mental illness more than other generations.

Thom Rainer views the church as God’s Plan A for helping this generation discover their true calling and thrive in a purposeful and genuine faith community. In this book, Thom explores research that reveals that the anxious generation is yearning for meaningful community and is waiting to be invited in.

The Anxious Generation Goes to

presents research on the anxious generation that engenders hope for the future of the church describes the unique challenges for the anxious generation as well as their dreams and goals provides strategy and inspiration for church leaders who want to prepare believers to provide help and hope With the unique challenges of our times, the anxious generation needs the church more than ever. Is your church ready?

Genres: Church, Nonfiction, Religion, Christian

192 pages, Hardcover

Published August 19, 2025

About the author

Thom S. Rainer is the founder and CEO of Church Answers and Executive Director of Revitalize Network. He is a graduate of the University of Alabama where he received his degree in business administration. He received both the master of divinity and the Ph.D. degrees from Southern Seminary.

Dr. Rainer has served as pastor of four churches. He is the former president of Rainer
Group consulting. He served for twelve years as dean at Southern Seminary and for thirteen years as the president and CEO of LifeWay Çhristian Resources.

Dr. Rainer has authored or co-authored 33 books. Among his greatest joys are his family: his wife Nellie Jo; three sons, Sam, Art, and Jess; and eleven grandchildren.

Reviews

[Renee Young · Rating 2 out of 5]

Let me start with saying, this will be a tough review.

Here is what I appreciated: 1. Rainer’s finding that distrust of the church decreases when proximity to church increases, and 2. Rainer’s most helpful thing in the book: “Rather than offering an oblique, “I would love for you to visit my church,” we can fully engage by saying, “I would love to take you to my church and treat you to lunch afterword” (152). I loved how practical this is and how it really reaches the next generation where they are and provides what they crave. It is the only instance.

I bought this book because I loved Haidt’s book “The Anxious Generation” and while reading that book, I felt there could be much to say on this topic from a Christian worldview. So, I bought this book because I thought the title and subtitle sounded appealing.

However, I feel mislead by the title, The Anxious Generation Goes to Church: What the Research Says about What Younger Generations Need (and Want) from Your Church. There are 97 total sources, which includes any scripture references (there a minimal). If this book is about what the research says, well, the research is wildly lacking. This book also seems to be riding the coattails of Jonathan Haidt’s “Anxious Generation.” The author regurgitates Haidt’s work more than should be permissible. This book does have a lot of good, general information, but it employs the name “Anxious Generation” without primarily speaking about them and their specific struggles. I don’t disagree with much of Rainer’s findings nor even his general suggestions on reaching the next generations, but the book has little organization, is overly repetitive, and lacked cohesion.

I want to be generous in my review and give the benefit of the doubt where I can, but I am really having a difficult time. Rainer writes a lot of books. He is a well-known, well-loved, and a well-respected author, especially in the SBC world, and has such great insights for church health. So the complete lack of focus in this book is disheartening. I don’t disagree with most of what Rainer is saying. I do think the church (as a gathering space and a people) can provide Gen Z and Gen Alpha with many answers for their longing hearts. “…the local church can meet so many of their needs and be a slave to many of their wounds” (58). I agree. It’s just that Rainer has the center of his message off, in my opinion. “If they come, their lives can be enhanced in innumerable ways” (71). Christ and the freedom he offers is not the underlying motivation for this book, at least it’s not presented that way—instead, the crux of his argument for getting people to church is that people will be more social, less anxious, more connected, less lonely.

As a Christian book dealing with the next generation of the church, I would expect a few things to be mentioned: there was no general theology, no ecclesiology, nor gospel-hope in this book. Unfortunately, there wasn’t much that set this book apart as a distinctly Christian book. Everyday club members, Mormons, and a sports team would find this information beneficial for growing their attendance alone.

The main theme in this book is “Just get the Anxious Generation to church and their life will improve.” Church attendance is seen as the gold standard for a better life, but not in a way that stems from a transformed life in Christ. Rainer seems to conflate Jesus and the church, noting that the church fills the “God-shaped hole” (94) over Christ himself. Rainer presents a very therapeutic gospel, at best; and it’s absent altogether, at worst.

“By actively choosing to dwell on positive and uplifting thoughts, young people can begin to rewire their brains away from negativity” (106).

This could so easily be rewritten to put Christ as the center

By actively choosing to dwell on the truths of God’s word and recount God’s faithfulness in their own lives, the Holy Spirit will begin to rewire their brains away from self and towards Christ.

This is where it gets hard for me to stand from a research position. Rainer writes many empty statements that are generally true without any sources to back up or any explanation.
1. “This exposure to positive role models can inspire and shape young minds in profoundly beneficial ways” (78). No elaboration.
2. “Church teachings promote authenticity and vulnerability, encouraging young people to be genuine in God’s eyes” (81). We should hold God’s word as the final authority, not church teachings.
3. “An older study by a Swiss government….” No source.
4. “A number of secularists today, most of whom are atheists, see significant value in churches in society” (89) There is no source demonstrating this is happening or that they are saying it. I am sure they are, so show me.
5. “…since only about 5% of churches today are intentional about reaching people with the gospel” (92). Where is this number coming from? No source.
6. In chapter 6, Rainer mentions 6 known atheists and then makes claims on their positive view of the church without giving me documentation as to where those people explained their position. His spat about Richard Dawkins particularly bothered me because if I were trying to articulate this to a nonbeliever, I would have no authority to say I actually know Dawkins has this stance. I would have to take Rainer’s word for it over a first-person account. (Pages 93-100)
7. “The evidence is more than ample” (112). Not super compelling.

I have belabored my point. I don't want to sound harsh, though this is a critique. I am just really disappointed to say the least. There is so much potential for this book, and it's just missing.

The lack of research and sources really bothered me, as the subtitle clearly articulates that this book will be full of research. If supporting claims doesn't bother you, it could be a useful book for you in a general sort of way. If you are looking for specifics, this won't be helpful.

In my opinion (which isn't super important, I'm not an editor, but since I'm reviewing the book I thought I would let you know), the book should be condensed to around 50 pages total OR it should be 300 pages long with ample research, quotes, scripture references, and have a gospel-thread through every page to give the reader hope that Jesus is at work saving those among the Anxious Generation regardless if your church gets it right or not.

I would start with reading these two 30-page booklets: Kevin DeYoung's The (Not-So-Secret) Secret to Reaching the Next Generation and Sharon James' Is Christianity Good for the World?. These two booklets will give you a solid foundation and practical starting points for reaching the Anxious Generation.

[Daniel Stitt · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book does an excellent job laying out the research and cultural background behind Gen Z’s struggles—and how those struggles are shaping the future of the church. The author’s insights into generational trends and the challenges facing young people today are sharp and well-documented, making it a solid resource for anyone hoping to minister to this group.

That said, some of the personal stories and illustrations felt a bit cringey and out of touch. It didn’t seem like the author had much firsthand experience actually working with Gen Z, which made the practical tips in the second half feel overly simplified. The book also started to ramble toward the end, losing some of its early focus.

Overall, The Anxious Generation Goes to Church is informative and well-researched, but it’s stronger on theory than on real-world ministry insight.

[Amy Coyle · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had pretty high hopes for this book as I am familiar with the content in The Anxious Generation book and was hoping for specific ways the church can minister to Gen Z and Gen Alpha. While there was nothing wrong with the book, it could have done so much more. The first half felt like a book report on The Anxious Generation which felt a little much.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow. What a thought provoking book. I have not read the book that inspired this one (although now I want to!) So much to think about on how we are reaching other generations & future generations in the church. Rainer put a lot of thought & time into this, and im not sure one read through will be enough. It will be a must get for my bookshelves, not just an ebook!

[Clair Culberson · Rating 2 out of 5]

Unfortunately, this book was pretty disappointing. I listened to it on audiobook, so at least it was brief. The entire first 27% is a recap of “The Anxious Generation,” which was a waste of time if you’ve already read it. As the book moved into the church/Christian elements, it was extremely repetitive, somewhat sensationalized, and made many sweeping statements that were not backed up by research. The author noted in the beginning of the book that it was highly researched, but it absolutely did not come across that way. As an elder Gen Z person myself, I agree with the author that it is extremely valuable for young people to go to church, but his statements about “the anxious generation” were primarily negative and sometimes even offensive. He often repeated, “If you invite them, they will come” as his main point of dealing with the “problems” of Gen Z and Gen Alpha, but did not offer any advise or research on how to involve them, how to integrate their use of technology, or how to address the negative impacts that smart technology has had on them with a biblical worldview.

TLDR: I was really hoping an informed and helpful Christian response would be written to “The Anxious Generation,” but this just wasn’t it. Don’t waste your time. If you want good recommendations instead, I have three:

1. The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
2. The Great Dechurching by Jim Davis and Michael Graham
3. The Divine Commidity by Skye Jethani

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

First sentence: I was well on my way to completing the research on a different book when I hit a wall.

The book I thought I was 'getting' was not the book I got. That's on me, mostly. I didn't see or pay enough attention to the subtitle. Perhaps. I have thoughts. I do. I'll try to share them when appropriate.

So what IS the book about? The book addresses from a statistical, sociological, analytical, research-oriented viewpoint how the two youngest generations--Gen Z and Gen Alpha--could benefit from the structure of the church and the church community. Gen Z refers to those born between 1997 and 2012. Gen Alpha refers to those born between 2013 and the present.

His inspiration for writing is DIRECTLY connected to his reading a secular book called The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt. Much of his book is spent summarizing and analyzing Haidt's book and spinning or tilting it perhaps to see it from a Christian perspective. The concerns are roughly the same, I believe, but Rainer focuses on a possible solution to the 'problem.'

Rainer defines and describes each generation from The Silent Generation on through Gen Alpha. Each generation is defined in GENERALIZED terms--very wide brush strokes, if you will. It starts from a place that these sociological terms and generalizations are essentially true. He does not question these foundational blocks. [I'm not saying that is in and of itself a bad thing. It's just that almost all of the building blocks in this book, the foundation, the walls, the supports, etc., are all sociological and not in any way drawing from Scripture.] All people from a generation are lumped together despite unique, personal, individual differences. A very one-size-fits-all cookie-cutter approach to viewing humanity.

The Anxious Generations--Gen Z and Gen Alpha--are being shaped, rewired essentially by "the big four" : high speed internet, smartphones, social media, and polarization. Rainer spends time explaining the evils of the big four. Though high-speed internet, smartphones, social media, and polarization are so closely connected and intertwined, so knotted and tangled together that I'm not sure it makes sense to separate them from each other. You can probably guess what makes the big four evil without further explanation. Polarization is the only one that might perhaps need a little help. Essentially the polarization of society on every subject--mostly online but in person as well perhaps. (For example, how EVERYTHING is one baby step away from being a political issue.)

He spends the most time on describing, defining, illustrating, etc., the 'special' problems facing the Anxious Generation. He then begins with a big picture, distant approach to how the church may be able to help. Again, his technique is more on statistics, research, polls, surveys, etc. He spends a chapter introducing readers to a series of atheists--yes, atheists--sharing quotes from them that allegedly show how even atheists admit that church can be stabilizing and morally good for society. How they may reject all religions and religious doctrines, etc, but they like the structures of the community--in theory at least.

When he speaks of the church most often it is in a distant sociological research way. There's little to no theology in this one.

The book isn't so much THE ANXIOUS GENERATIONS NEED JESUS AS THEIR LORD AND SAVIOR because they are sinners in need of a Savior, as Gen Z and Gen Alpha need the structure of weekly fellowship, in-person friendships, socialization and camaraderie. They need youth groups, discipleship, mentorship, to be a part of a family. It will benefit their mental health if they attend church. It doesn't really go into spiritual needs and spiritual solutions.

He encourages the church to actively invite and welcome younger people in the church. That means, most notably, bringing someone to church--literally. Not just inviting casually. But making plans, going with them, sitting with them, sharing a meal, etc. He points out time and time again, that most are not willing to go to a church alone, but if they had someone to go with them, they'd go. He also emphasizes that "the unchurched" of all ages are not hostile to the faith, to church, to Christians, they just are waiting for us to go to them and actively care about them. (I'm not sure *where* he is getting this not hostile thing. I'm not sure which polarized view is right.)

[Shelby Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Anxious Generation… 💭 This book really digs into how the church can serve and support Gen Z and Gen Alpha—the generations being called the anxious generation. It’s packed with stats (sometimes repetitive, but honestly, I found that helpful with a book like this) and constantly points back to The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt. In fact, I’d say this reads best as a companion book alongside that one. (I’ve not read Jonathan Haidt, but Thom highly encourages reading that as well. He goes more into the reality behind the anxious generation and what they face. This book is talking to the church about the anxious generation)

What really stood out to me is how clearly Rainer shows the need for community and connection. Gen Z and Alpha have been pushed into the digital age where so much of that is missing, and the church has the opportunity to be the very place they find it. By pointing them to biblical figures who were faithful through unimaginable hardships, the church can help these generations see that challenges and suffering are part of the human experience—but they can be endured and overcome through faith.

On a personal note, I felt connected to this book in a surprising way. Statistically I’m Gen X, but I relate so much more to millennials and even Gen Z in how I experience anxiousness and feeling out of place in the world we live in. That made this book hit home for me, because it reminded me that the church isn’t just for “the next generation”—it’s for all of us who are longing for stability, truth, and belonging.

Young adults & teenagers today just want TRUTH, REALNESS and RELATIONSHIP!! This book is truly so good at highlighting the realities that younger generations face due to technology, unlimited & fast access to screens, etc and how the church can help!!

One of the quotes that truly stuck out to me and made me audibly say “yes!”….”Most older church members want their church to reach younger people—that is, until those younger people begin to change and reshape the church. It simply won’t work. We must be willing to be uncomfortable to reach the younger generations, especially with those who don’t believe as we do” 🔥 THIS IS TRUTH. Here’s the thing, the younger generation is going to stir change and reshaping the way things have been and that is OKAY. Don’t hold so fast to tradition you lose sight of the mission: teaching the younger generation about Jesus and living a HEAVENLY kingdom on earth for them! I firmly believe that the change the younger generation brings can change even the older generations lives!!

“True victory takes place not only when the Anxious Generation goes to church, but also when the Anxious Generation comes to Christ” 👏🏼

If you’re a parent, leader, or just someone who cares about what the future church will look like, this is worth the read. It’s not flashy, but it’s informative, encouraging, and points us back to the hope only found in Christ and His people. ✝️

Highly recommend picking up this book today! 🥳

[Milinda Yount · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like the premise and the timeliness of this book – the author is building on the topic of the book The Anxious Generation by Jonathon Haidt which was published just over a year ago and got quite a lot of traction and exposure. Haidt’s book spends a great deal of time and data analysis to propose the issues that face our young generations now are very connected to the shift from a play-based childhood to a phone-based childhood and that children today have less independence navigating the in-real-life world. I read the Haidt book as well so was curious how to apply what these studies on Gen X and Alpha tell us, so that we can them involved in church.

Rainer has continued on with this topic with additional research and spends a good portion of his book relaying similar information as he sets up the overall basic premise. He makes strong points for the benefit of the church for these young people and discusses some ways that church members can respond to make it more likely for them to come and to stay. Because there isn’t a silver bullet (though he stresses personal invitation a lot) there isn’t a formula to follow and the part of the book about what to do is limited (I didn’t feel like it got to ideas or actions until about the 75-80% point). He does provide good food for thought for all, either parents of those still living at home or church members and pastors in general.

Thank you to the Tyndale House Publisher and NetGalley for an early copy to read and review. This book is expected out in August 2025.

[Rena Philips · Rating 3 out of 5]

As the mom of two Gen Zers, I had high hopes for this book. It began strong, with thoughtful insights into generational differences and the damaging effects of smartphones and social media on the “Anxious Generation.” But the author soon lost focus, relying heavily on his company’s surveys and repeatedly circling the same points.

The book shifted from Gen Z to a broader argument for church attendance, even dedicating a full chapter to non-Gen Z atheists and agnostics who see value in the church. While I agree that church provides community, prayer, service, a Biblical foundation, and support that could benefit a generation struggling with digital addiction, I wanted more concrete ideas on how faith communities can make these offerings meaningful and inclusive for Gen Z. I also wish the author had included more voices from the generation itself.

Instead, he leaned on one survey to suggest that simply inviting a Gen Zer to church is enough—ignoring the reality that many are alienated by church doctrine and judgment. My concern is how to create welcoming spaces that encourage Gen Z to stay engaged in faith long-term. Unfortunately, the book became repetitive and missed the opportunity to truly answer that question.

[Aoife · Rating 2 out of 5]

I feel like the title is misleading. It’s suggesting that the Anxious Generation are indeed already going to Church when rather this is the hope of a Pastor who worries about dwindling congregations and thinks this will kill two birds with one stone.

Rainer builds on the idea of Jonathan Haidt and the anxious generation. This is Generation X and Generation Alpha who have reverted to online, have lost a sense of community and don’t see church going as a priority.
I requested this book in the hope that it would actually explore this idea of the anxious generation indeed going to church and how it helped, but rather it was a bashing of the anxious generation, hailing his family as the perfect example. It was an endorsement of his ideals.

When he looked at the reasons why people have said they don’t go to church. He belittled some of the excuses and personally I found problem when he said it was due to church abuses. As someone from Ireland who has a conflicted relationship with the church, I feel this reasoning should be respected and not ridiculed and maybe if he did have that level of understanding this book may been more digestible.

[Michael Bergman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free preview copy as part of continuing education.

The Anxious Generation Goes to Church is full of wisdom for how churches can reach Generations Z and Alpha. Smart phones and social media have brought a vast change to the world, and not all of it has been better. Though these tools have their purpose, they have also led to a mental health crisis among the younger generations.

The church can be a place to disconnect, find community, know God, and have hope. Rainer's book is a tool in box of how to do that and love the younger generations as Jesus loves them.

I do wish there were some more practical elements on how to go and connect with GenZ, but I also get Rainer's point that there are no silver bullets and magic elixirs, and that we must start with prayer.

Overall, I highly recommend this work.

[Erica · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a tough one to review--it is largely based on the title's namesake "The Anxious Generation" but with some additions. I wasn't expecting so much time (or any) to be spent on Haidt's book, but rather expected novel research and the impact it has on this generation. While this book was still easy to read and I really enjoyed it, it was a mismatch for my expectations. Perhaps the synopsis could be adjusted a bit (because it is still a very worthy read)? 3.5 stars rounded up to 4. *I received a complimentary e-ARC from the author/publishing company via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts & opinions are my own.

[Debbie Koester · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The Anxious Generation Goes to Church" by Thom S. Rainer is non fiction data driven tome on the "Anxious Generation" as termed by Generation X and Generation Alpha, and why they are anxious, mostly brought on by social media and it's attraction and addiction and how many are now lacking in true social relationships in real life and his thoughts on what the church should be doing. Very interesting and I saw a lot of things in my own church.

[Brian Jackett · Rating 2 out of 5]

2 stars is being generous as I thoroughly enjoyed the book this is modeled after (The Anxious Generation), but find this book not as well written for content, lacking in details /perspective (aside from a small number of vague stories about Gen Z / Alpha the author met), and weak general guidance of "invite them and they will attend".

I do believe that faith and the church can help people of all generations, but this was not the book that gave me hope in this regard.

[Natalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Readable, insightful, and engaging. This book gave me a lot to think about. Rainer has clearly done his research and a lot of it was eye opening. I can’t wait to read more of his church books - they are short but certainly pack a punch…and that is coming from someone who doesn’t read a ton of nonfiction. I can’t wait to implement some of these ideas in my home church.

[William Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the perfect follow-up to reading Jonathan Haidt's Anxious Generation. After the shock of that landmark book about what is happening to the younger generation in regards to phones, screens, ect., Tom Rainer gives a Christian/Church perspective on the matter. Very good.

[Graham Bates · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Anxious Generation Goes to Church is an okay balance of inspiration and explanation. The church portions are pretty generic and idealistic, but are good to read as a reminder. The anxious generation portion is a good read. Rainer writes well enough.

[Tiffany McDonald · Rating 3 out of 5]

A sense of belonging is important and real relationships. The data is interesting, but predictable.

[Elya Shaheen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like how he used the research from "The Anxious Generation" and "The Great Rewiring" and tied it into his research with the effects the church can have on that generation.

[Tim · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a topic I am very interested in. The book is well written, though it does have some moments which are redundant. I appreciated the author’s pan-Christian tone.

[Christine Stitt · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Anxious Generation Goes to Church was an incredible listen. Anyone working with Gen Z in a ministry setting, should give this one a shot.

To be clear, this is not The Anxious Generation book. That one came first, and inspired Thom to write this book.

Packed with incredible facts and research, Thom starts by outlining each generation- what shaped them culturally, economically, etc. From The Silent Generation (my grandparents), to The Boomers (my parents), Gen X (which have been some of my coworkers throughout the years), down to me and my husband (Millenials), and then Gen Z, who are young adults I interact with today. I now feel like I can spot someone’s age demographic a mile away. 😆

Gen Z (young adults ages 28-13 right now), are what many are considering the “Anxious Generation”. This book makes a case for why young adults in Gen Z need the church, and why the church needs them.

He goes through a lot of scenarios and ideas for how to integrate young adults into the church. More than other generations, Gen Z can feel intimidated to visit a church alone, and need a personal connection to take a chance and go.

This book was a great resource and jumping off point for me (and my husband), to learn more about the demographic we’d like to work with at our church. It was also helpful to learn more about Gen Z, as my own children come right after, Gen Alpha, and have some similar traits.