13 to 25

Abby, a youth minister in Michigan, shares how her faith journey has been shaped by practicing gratitude, connecting with people from a range of different beliefs and backgrounds, and taking time to understand the meaning behind the sacraments and structure of the Catholic Church. To center herself, Abby finds comfort in being near a body of water and carving out a prayer corner as a sacred space in her home.

Daniel, a college senior and a football quarterback at Duke University, describes how Judaism has provided him with a deep sense of community throughout all different stages of his life. Participating in weekly Shabbat dinners on his campus offers a weekly rhythm where he can take a break to breathe, reflect, and connect with other Jewish students and faith leaders. He also describes how being in conversation with friends and teammates from other faith traditions allows him to ask questions about his own faith practices.

Lily, a sophomore in high school, compares her faith journey to her life as a ballet dancer, describing both as constants which offer her a source of comfort as well as happiness. A practicing Catholic, Lily also points to reading scripture, being in nature, spending time with her family, connecting with other Asian American teenagers in an advocacy group, and meditating as practices that ground her and give her outlets to express her faith.

Saad, a pre-med student in Chicago, shares how asking hard questions and traversing obstacles throughout his adolescence have deepened both his understanding and practice of Islam. He describes his daily prayer life where he can “talk to God as a friend” as well as acts of charity as essential sacred practices to feel connected to his local and global Muslim faith community.

Lucy, a college student at Villanova University, shares how she weaves an appreciation for tradition with a need for exploration in how she defines and approaches her spiritual life. Participating in small faith communities, playing music in various religious and non-religious spaces, and connecting with the natural world are practices she finds integral for nurturing her inner and outer life.

Springtide Executive Director Dr. Josh Packard talks with Marte Aboagye, producer of The Voices of Young People Podcast, about key themes and takeaways from Season 5, exploring how the 10 guests' stories correspond with our latest report: The State of Religion & Young People 2021: Navigating Uncertainty.

25-year-old Avthar describes the tech industry as a place of fulfillment for engaging problem-solving and being of service to others. He highlights the ways his current boss has built a positive work environment for offering constructive feedback and points to other trusted adults who have invested in his personal growth throughout his youth and young adulthood.

Combining a degree in Spanish and a passion for healthcare, 23-year-old Cristina offers a compelling look at her decision to pursue a career as a healthcare interpreter. She describes the importance of finding balance between work and life: making time to enjoy outside interests and friendships and connecting with a mentor who's working to build online community spaces with fellow Latinas.

While student-teaching during his final semester of college, Jesse shares how mentors are helping him cultivate both personal and professional growth, noting how even small, intentional gestures from them have impacted his life. He discusses practical ways he hopes to support his own students as an educator, including bringing principles of restorative justice into the classroom.

A lover of the arts, Mat is in his final semester of college and considering between career paths in music production, musical theater, or dance. He reflects on the challenges of entering the performing arts professionally during a global pandemic and offers perspective on the lessons he’s gleaned from mentors at work and school.