Written by: Philip de Jager
Article source: JOY! Magazine

“Redeeming the time…” is Paul’s wise counsel (Eph 5:16 and Col 4:5). Considering this wisdom, we talk about a “gap” year. For some, it is a break from routine, even rules, to go somewhere (sometimes abroad) to enjoy some time out. However, for a large majority of Gen Z, it is an opportunity to gain essential orientation regarding meaningfulness and the beginning of the adventure to express purposefulness in life. Isn’t this what parents desire for their children’s future: a meaningful, purposeful, and beautiful life – lived to the glory of God?

Gen Z are so valuable
Young people experience enormous pressure – they are expected to make decisions about their future after grade 12 and start behaving like adults. But how often are these young people given a much-needed chance to vent freely and find answers to their insecurities about themselves, their dreams or ideals, and how they can live a purposeful life and learn how to stand for their Christian values in a progressive and fluid society? Moreover, we must recognise the findings from many researchers that Gen Z place a high premium on emotional well-being, experience an urgency to express their unique selves, and commit to meritorious matters. We cannot afford to lose Gen Z. We dare not underestimate the positive impact and momentum they can have in a sick and hurting society in terms of living out the Great Commission.

Helping Gen Z find their purpose
Therefore, a service year for Christ – like Koinonia Discipleship Training Academy (KDTA) – is a beautiful opportunity for Gen Z to discover, develop, and deploy meaningfulness. Instead of us frowning at their behaviour or apparent inability to get going, let’s allow them to find meaningfulness and purpose. And all this while they live fully and ultimately for Jesus. KDTA is a service year for Christ standing in the gap to support Gen Z. Our programme places an intentional focus on the following:

• Discipleship training
• What it means to be a Christian in contemporary society (contextual missiology)
• What our fundamental Christian beliefs are (faith formation)
• Emotional health and leadership development
• Unforgettable adventure excursions

In short, KDTA is the place for Gen Z! Together, we will be the light and life to the glory of God (1 Pet 2:9).

Koinonia

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Date published: 01/09/2023
Feature image: Image for illustrative purposes only. Artwork adapted from pixabay.com

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