Innovations in Reaching Gen Z

Oct 15, 2024

Keith Wieser, an experienced leader in collegiate ministry, joins the hosts to tackle the challenges of connecting with Generation Z. He sheds light on cultural shifts like anxiety and social media's impact on students' lives. The discussion emphasizes the need for relational evangelism and emotional intelligence in ministry. Wieser also shares strategies for identifying spiritually open students and the importance of empowering leaders for multiplication, ensuring a robust and supportive community amidst rapid changes.

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Intro

00:00 • 3min

Exploring Recreation: Biking and Surfing Adventures

03:21 • 2min

Navigating Gen Z's Emotional Landscape

05:08 • 27min

Connecting with the Next Generation

32:15 • 10min

Empowering Disciples for Multiplication

42:03 • 5min

Multiplying Church Resources and Unforgettable Stories

47:26 • 3min

In Episode 5 of Season 4, hosts Shane Pruitt, Paul Worcester, and Lacey Villasenor welcome Keith Wieser to discuss the latest challenges and strategies for reaching the next generation of college students. Keith shares insights from his 17 years of ministry, including the key cultural shifts affecting students today, such as the roles of anxiety, identity, and technology in their lives. The conversation dives into practical approaches for discipling students in a rapidly changing culture and highlights the importance of relational evangelism, multiplication, and being led by the Spirit.

Also in This Episode:

How emotional intelligence plays a greater role in ministering to students
Practical strategies for identifying and discipling spiritually open students
The critical role of multiplication in maturing student disciples
Navigating the impacts of anxiety, social media, and identity in student ministry today
How to equip student leaders for mission and evangelism

Helpful Resources:

The Resonate Collective: Learn more about Keith Wieser’s church planting and leadership resources.
Evangelism for Collegiate Leaders: Discover how to equip and empower those in your student ministry to share the gospel with others.
eBook Series on Collegiate Church Ministry and Planting: Check out this four-ebook series that explores how to help college students live on mission.

Shareable Quotes:

“I think almost every college minister I’ve talked to is like, “Man, the challenge is getting people to be in a committed thing. ‘Are you coming to this event?’ So, there’s a sense of needing to recognize and recalibrate to that lower level of commitment.” — Keith Wieser
“It’s okay to not be okay, but it ain’t okay to stay that way when there’s another way. And Jesus is the way.” — Shane Pruitt
“I haven’t found anything better to help someone overcome that inward focus, that anxiety, than being a part of the movement of God on mission via evangelism, disciple-making, and living on mission.” — Paul Worcester
“Non-believers have more clarity related to their spiritual interests. Either I’m interested in spiritual things, or I’m not.” — Keith Wieser