The Millennial Narrative: Sharing a Good Life with the Next Generation

“A good education will land you a good job,” “Be an entrepreneur/Start
something in a garage or dorm room” and even “Jesus saves” are
narratives that collapsed for the millennial generation (born
1982-2002). These narratives, amongst many similar social and religious
ones, have lost their meaning and power as millennials question all
authorities and struggle to flourish in a world come of age. With their
needs for community and success, a strong spirituality, and believing
that their gifts should be recognized and can make a difference,
millennials increasingly find meaning and purpose outside the church. As
they face economic uncertainty, reduced career prospects, unceasing
change, as well as civic, global, and ecological uncertainties, however,
a large number of millennials are overwhelmed with feelings of anxiety
and depression. Caught between hope and fear, millennials leave the
church with their values of personal transformation, purpose, community,
spirituality, social transformation and ecological awareness.
Ironically the church often holds the same
values.


The Millennial Narrative is written for pastoral leaders who
want to welcome millennials, both inside and outside their congregation.
The book draws on the wisdom of the prophetic Book of Joel as a
narrative worth living into. Drawing on Joel’s three chapters, The Millennial Narrative empowers pastoral leaders to:

• Facilitate the work of mourning millennials are
facing;

• Envision a spiritual community that can welcome
millennials;

• Introduce a compassionate God that restores and indwells as the
Spirit;

• Reflect on God’s judgment through the lens of accountability;
and,

• Support and encourage millennials to be a blessing to
others.


In addition, pastoral leaders will receive a sermon outline and material for adult education.

Jaco J. Hamman is the Director of the Program in Theology and Practice & Associate Professor of Religion, Psychology and Culture at Vanderbilt Divinity School in Nashville, TN.