Future Church
Feb 02, 2025
Future Church
Where Every Generation Finds Home
By Stephen Baxter
In the heart of Tasmania, where faith stands at a crossroads, an extraordinary prospect is before us. Statistics tell us only 34% identify as Christian, and half claim no religious affiliation. While this is undoubtedly a challenge, it is also a unique opportunity—to become an authentic, vibrant community that transcends age barriers.
Picture walking into a church where the energy is electric, where grandparents and teenagers serve side-by-side, where children’s laughter mingles with ancient hymns, and where every person knows they are part of something bigger than themselves. This is the potential intergenerational community that Baptist churches in Tasmania can embrace.
The evidence is compelling. The Fuller Youth Institute’s research reveals that when generations interweave their lives, faith doesn’t just survive – it thrives. Young people surrounded by multi-generational relationships develop deeper faith, a stronger identity, and lasting connections to Jesus. These bonds aren’t just meaningful; they are transformative.
It’s time to reimagine church life. Instead of separating by age, what if we created spaces where wisdom and wonder collide? Where a teenager’s passionate prayer complements an elder’s seasoned faith? Where children don’t just watch but lead, and every generation brings their unique gifts to church life?
It is already happening. Younger Australians are leading a spiritual renaissance. While 23% of Baby Boomers attend church monthly, an inspiring 50% of Millennial Christians and 40% of Gen Z believers actively engage in church life. They’re not just showing up – they’re seeking authentic community where their voices echo and their presence matters.
A moment for vision and action
This moment calls us to bold vision and creative action. It means reimagining worship to include every voice – from the youngest reader to the most seasoned prayer warrior. It means creating spaces where stories of faith flow freely between generations, where modern technology enhances rather than divides, and where innovative approaches like Messy Church bring fresh energy to ancient truths.
As it was in the early church and throughout church history, we are those who break down the barriers of age and tradition to build communities that reflect the magnificent diversity of God’s kingdom. This is Tasmanian Baptists’ focus for this year.
We are those who break down the barriers of age and tradition to build communities that reflect the magnificent diversity of God’s kingdom
In a world hungry for connection and starving for purpose, let us rebuild our churches to be places where every age is valued, every voice is heard, and every person finds their place in God’s family.
Stephen L. Baxter is Mission Director for Tasmanian Baptists.