Global Study Reveals Youth Reluctance to Discuss Identity with Religious Leaders

A new report titled “The Relate Project 2026: Connecting with the Next Generation,” released by the youth ministry organization Young Life, indicates that many young people worldwide feel disconnected from their faith communities. The study, which surveyed over 7,100 individuals aged 13 to 24 across 11 countries, found that youth are often hesitant to discuss their personal identities with pastors and religious leaders.

When asked where they feel they most belong, respondents overwhelmingly prioritized family and friends, with only 7% of the total sample identifying faith communities as a primary place of belonging. While religious respondents were more likely to feel connected to their churches than non-religious peers, the data suggests a significant gap in how young people perceive their role within religious institutions. Young Life researchers stated the project was initiated to better understand the cultural and technological influences shaping today’s youth, aiming to help ministry staff more effectively support the next generation.