

The Religious Awakening of Gen Z - Esmé Partridge | Maiden Mother Matriarch Episode 143
May 28, 2025
Esmé Partridge, a researcher at the crossroads of religion, philosophy, and politics, dives into Gen Z's evolving spiritual landscape. She critiques the Church of England's failure to engage youth, as many seek traditional worship over modern methods. The podcast explores trends like #witchtok, showcasing how young women navigate spirituality through eclectic practices. Esmé also highlights the need for genuine faith experiences and the complex relationship between spiritual beliefs and mental health, urging a balanced approach to spirituality.
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Church Misses Gen Z's Spiritual Needs
- The Church of England wrongly assumes appealing to young people requires replicating modern culture.
- Many Gen Z seek countercultural, rooted traditional forms like high church worship instead.
Slow Enchantment of Liturgy
- Anglicanism's ritualistic worship is initially unfamiliar but grows through repetition into spiritual enchantment.
- Liturgy's rhythmic repetition nurtures spiritual growth despite its initial strangeness.
Anglicanism's Broad Church Ideal
- Anglicanism ideally balances diverse theological opinions and worship styles within one universal church.
- Combining traditional wisdom with evangelical enthusiasm creates a more holistic religious experience.