Leveraging digital to connect with Generation Alpha (those turning 16 and younger)
Today’s young people are more open to faith conversations than many assume.
Back in Nov/Dec this column discussed Generation Z, those born between roughly 1995 and 2009 (now ages 16 to 30). They’re followed by Generation Alpha, born from 2010 to 2024. The leading edge of Gen Alpha is now entering their high school years and are growing up in an even more digitally connected world.
A recent study by Barna Research, produced in partnership with Biblica, World Vision and Alpha, describes today’s teens as The Open Generation because of their remarkable curiosity about Jesus, the Bible and justice. In Canada 43% of teens report being at least somewhat motivated to keep learning about Jesus throughout their lives. This presents an incredible opportunity for Christian leaders, parents and mentors to come alongside them in their faith journey.
I’ve had the privilege of working with Alpha Canada for the past two years, witnessing firsthand the impact of the new Alpha Youth Series, released last November, in reaching this open generation.
This video series creatively unpacks the real questions Gen Alpha young people have. Consisting of ten episodes run over eight weeks, it introduces and explores the core ideas of the Christian faith in a relevant and engaging way (AlphaCanada.org/AlphaYouthSeries).
Church leaders, parents and students are inviting youth to put down their phones, and join them for food and discussion in real life. No question or perspective is unwelcome. This is about conversation, not conversion, as Alpha wants to encourage people to consider Jesus for themselves, often for the first time, and come to their own decisions at their own pace.
Despite being a generation that has always had digital connections around it, Canadian Christian teens still express a strong preference for engaging with faith in tangible ways, according to The Open Generation study. For instance, 48% of Christian teens prefer to read the Bible in print, compared to only 17% who use an app and 9% who engage online. While technology is a significant part of their lives, in-person and tactile experiences still hold deep value.
Alpha courses offer this in-person experience, drawing 119,981 Canadians in 2024, including 1,907 youth-specific courses. The new Alpha Youth Series should engage even more students in 2025.
For older generations looking to engage meaningfully with young people, here’s a reminder of some best practices to build authentic relationships both online and offline:
Be present in their digital world.
Many young people experience community and learning online. Follow and engage with the social platforms they use, but do so authentically. Share encouraging content, ask thoughtful questions and be a presence that reflects the love of Jesus.
Prioritize face-to-face connection.
While digital engagement is important, don’t underestimate the power of real-world conversations. Invite them for coffee, host a youth Alpha course or simply make time to listen.
Ask questions, don’t just teach.
Young people are not just looking for answers – they’re looking for dialogue. Engage their curiosity by asking what they think about faith, Jesus and justice. Be a safe space for exploration.
Model vulnerability and authenticity.
Today’s teens value honesty. Share your own faith journey including your doubts and struggles. Authenticity builds trust.
Despite the rapid pace of change today, young Canadians remain open to Jesus, spiritual conversations and meaningful relationships with mentors who genuinely care. Those of us from older generations have the privilege of walking alongside them, helping them connect their digital and real-world experiences with a faith that is living and active. Let’s meet them where they are and journey with them toward Jesus.
Joanna la Fleur is a podcaster, TV host and communications consultant in Toronto. Find more of these columns at FaithToday.ca/ThrivingInDigital. Photo of women: Daiga Ellaby